If you’re looking to understand Alsace’s wine and culinary culture without the fluff, this 2.5-hour tour in Gertwiller hits just the right notes. For $76 per person, you get a walk through a family winery dating back to 1778, a tasting of local organic wines, and a hearty lunch of Alsatian specialties in a modern, immersive setting. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience combines history, flavor, and scenery in a way that feels genuine without being overly touristy.
What we especially appreciate about this tour is its focus on authenticity—visiting a winery with roots that stretch back centuries and experiencing wines produced in the traditional style in a cellar housing 1850s oak barrels. The second highlight? The interactive, multimedia lunch space where you get to enjoy regional dishes amid images and sounds that evoke the spirit of Alsace.
A small but notable downside is that the tour doesn’t include a vineyard walk, so if you’re eager for vineyard panoramas, this might feel a bit limited. Still, for those who value deep dives into local winemaking traditions and regional flavors, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s well-suited for curious foodies, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, immersive taste of Alsace in a friendly, family-run setting.
This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 5 Tours In Alsace.
Key Points
- Authentic Family Winery: Established in 1778, still family-operated, offering a genuine glimpse into Alsace winemaking.
- Traditional Cellar Visit: Experience the traditional process and view historic oak barrels from 1850.
- Tasting & Lunch Combination: Enjoy a curated selection of Alsatian wines paired with regional dishes.
- Immersive Setting: Modern dining room with visual and auditory elements transporting you into Alsace’s wine culture.
- Value for Money: At $76, it combines education, tasting, and regional cuisine in a concise experience.
- Ideal for Food & Wine Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who want a well-rounded, authentic taste of Alsace without long travel times.
The Setting: A Historic Family Winery in Gertwiller
From the moment we arrive at “Au Péché Vigneron”, you can tell this isn’t just a business—it’s a home. The winery, located in Gertwiller, is a modest cube of wood between two colorful houses, which adds to its charm. The parking lot is large, and the entrance is straightforward, on the main road. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere that hints at stories passed down through generations.
The winery’s roots go back to 1778, and since then, it’s remained in the family, now producing organic wines. This history lends a sense of continuity and pride that’s palpable during the tour.
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The Cellar Tour: Traditional Methods and Historic Barrels
The highlight here is the guided tour of the cellar, lasting about an hour. Your guide (or host) explains the winemaking process step-by-step, from grape harvest to bottling, emphasizing traditional practices still used today.
One of the most striking features is the collection of massive oak barrels from 1850, some of which survived the 1900 Paris World’s Fair, according to reviews. These barrels aren’t just relics—they serve as a living testament to the winery’s heritage.
While there’s no vineyard walk, we loved the way the guide’s passion made the process vivid. The videos and visual elements projected on the walls, as mentioned by some visitors, add a dynamic twist to the experience, making the process accessible and engaging.
The Tasting Experience: An Intimate Introduction to Alsace Wines
After the cellar tour, it’s time for the tasting. The wines are carefully selected, showcasing the region’s diverse styles—from crisp whites to sparkling crémants. One reviewer notes, “We were able to taste 7 wines, which was enough for us,” indicating a generous and varied tasting.
The wines are paired with brochures and background info, which helps you understand their place in Alsace’s winemaking landscape. The guide’s knowledge makes the tasting educational without feeling heavy, and the organic production adds a modern, eco-conscious dimension.
The Alsatian Lunch: Regional Flavors in a Modern, Immersive Space
Post-tasting, you’re invited to enjoy a delicious, regional lunch in a newly designed, 100% immersive restaurant. Decorated with images and sounds that evoke Alsace’s landscapes and traditions, the space feels both contemporary and deeply connected to the region’s identity.
Your meal will typically include a soup or gazpacho, a hearty Alsatian meat pie, and a cheese plate. You’ll also sample kougelhopf (a traditional Alsace cake) and Bibeleskaes (a creamy fromage blanc). Each dish is served with a regional wine, enhancing the flavors and giving you a true taste of local cuisine.
Reviews praise the quality of the food, noting dishes like the gazpacho as “delicious,” and the overall experience as “very comfortable.” The visual and auditory elements—images of vineyards, pastoral scenes, and soft lounge music—transport you beyond just the taste buds, into the spirit of Alsace.
For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian options are available if requested in advance, and children are accommodated with a smaller menu, making this experience family-friendly.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Final Touches: Coffee, Souvenirs, and Flexibility
The meal concludes with coffee or tea, and you can purchase bottles directly from the winery as souvenirs. This is a nice touch, allowing you to bring a piece of Alsace home, and reviews confirm that many do.
The entire experience is flexible—cancellations are free up to 24 hours before, and you can reserve now with the “pay later” option, which offers peace of mind for spontaneous travel plans.
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Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for those who appreciate a well-rounded culture—history, tradition, wine, and regional cuisine—all in one compact package. It’s especially perfect for foodies and wine lovers who want a taste of authentic Alsace without the fuss of large groups or long tours. Families with children are also well-catered for, thanks to the kid-friendly menu.
It might not suit travelers looking for vineyard vistas or extensive outdoor walks, but if you prefer deep, personal stories and high-quality regional flavors, this is a winner.
If you’re after a genuinely local experience that balances history, taste, and comfort, this tour fits the bill. The chance to explore a family-run winery with roots back to the 18th century, coupled with the opportunity to sample a curated selection of Alsatian wines, makes it a rare find. The modern, multimedia lunch setting offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, making the meal memorable.
The reviews consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge, the excellent wine quality, and the delicious regional dishes. It’s clear this experience offers great value, blending education with relaxation in a way that feels both authentic and thoughtfully curated.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile, a curious traveler, or a family looking for a cultural outing, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable introduction to Alsace’s wine and culinary fame.
Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and non-drinkers can enjoy the lunch and learn about the region without participating in the wine tasting.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 2.5 hours, including the cellar tour, tasting, and lunch.
Is transportation provided?
No, you’ll meet at the winery in Gertwiller. Parking is available right in front of the entrance.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in both French and English, accommodating international visitors.
Are children allowed?
Yes, children can join with a special menu that includes snacks, vegetable chips, and a drink. You can also opt not to register them in advance and let them choose on-site.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before.
Can I buy wine after the tour?
Absolutely. Bottles are available for purchase, making nice souvenirs or gifts.
What’s the best way to prepare for this tour?
Come with an interest in regional foods and wines, and be ready to learn from passionate guides who love sharing their craft.
In sum, this Alsace wine and food tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, tastings, and regional cuisine—all in a friendly, authentic setting. It’s a perfect way to deepen your understanding of Alsace’s unique culture without the hassle of longer, more commercial tours.
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