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Red Alsace Wines
While Blanc d'Alsace and Crémant remain the best-known wines from our region, reds are also holding their own with an unusual and unique range that has no reason to be ashamed when compared to their illustrious counterparts. Explanations and tasting notes.
Pinot Noir, the grape variety used in Alsace red wines
Pinot Noir is a very old grape variety, found of course in our region but also in Burgundy in particular. It is the only red grape variety authorized in Alsace.
Historically, Alsace red wines were highly regarded since the Middle Ages, before experiencing a decline that saw them account for only 2% of the region's vineyards in 1969. Today, however, it is making a comeback: 10% of Alsace's vineyards are now planted with Pinot Noir.
This renewed love for this very special grape variety is linked to increasingly high-quality production, whereas in the 1960s Pinot Noir was often a diluted, light and easy-drinking wine, served very chilled, with little personality. Today, Alsace red wines are regaining their prestige thanks to committed winemakers who produce wines with a more assertive structure.
Red wines in search of recognition
Alsace reds therefore have a card to play, but one that is currently hampered by a minor handicap: none of these wines carry the "Grand Cru" appellation, even when they come from a classified plot!
Pinot Noir is not intended to compete with Burgundy wines (which share the Pinot Noir grape variety with Alsace reds), but it asserts its identity and specificity. Several winemakers and estates have joined this initiative to give Alsace reds their letters of nobility. The debate over whether Pinot Noir wines should be allowed to call themselves "Alsace Grand Cru" has been reignited, and this is a matter to be followed very closely.
Types and tasting notes for Alsace red wines
Alsace red wines today offer a beautiful personality that is both full-bodied and fruity. The color can range from a deep, dark red to subtle garnet hues. The nose is characterized by aromas of black berries and fruits such as blackberry, blackcurrant, and cherry, sometimes surprising with notes of leather, vanilla, or prune.
On the palate, Alsace red wines express all the power of their terroir and beautifully enhance the fruity aromas of their nose. Balanced and long on the finish, these wines are structured by their ample, silky tannins.
Alsace red wines pair perfectly with fine cuts of red meat such as rib of beef or duck breast. Don't hesitate to serve them with stews or beef bourguignon either.
Alsace red wines are a whole world waiting to be (re)discovered! Discover the richness of our range of Pinot Noirs and invite them to be the guest of honor at your table.
