Stork country delivers basket of stellar wines

BORDERING Switzerland and Germany, ownership of the picturesque north-eastern French region of Alsace has changed hands several times over the centuries, resulting in an intriguing mix of French and German influences – especially when it comes to wine. Alsace is a summer nesting ground for storks and they have come to symbolise it, standing for good luck and fertility.And it has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other part of France. Situated between the Rhine and the Vosges Mountains, shelter provided by the latter means it has one of the lowest rainfalls in France, while proximity to the Rhine moderates its climate with cold winters and warm, dry summers. The autumnal combination of warm days and cool nights means grapes enjoy a long, slow ripening.

About 90 per cent of the wine is white, there is little use of oak and they tend to be fresh and fruit-focused. It shares many varieties of grape with Germany, dominated by riesling, pinot blanc and gewürztraminer. Pinot gris is also widely grown, while other varieties include sylvaner.

But unlike German wines, Alsatian wines are mostly dry. Crémant production has increased significantly in recent years and is now the most popular sparkling wine in France after Champagne. With their aromatic, fruity character, minerality and acidity, Alsatian wines are a perfect match for the region’s hearty cuisine. The crispness of pinot blanc goes well with appetisers, poultry and fish.

Other great food matches are ham, rich sausages, spiced vegetable dishes and mild blue cheese. Mouth-watering!