Gertwiller, nestled in the heart of Alsace, offers visitors an enchanting cellar tour, wine tasting, and picnic experience. This 1.5-hour guided journey delves into the region’s winemaking traditions, immersing guests in the history of a family-owned cellar dating back to 1850. With tastings of five exquisite wines and a captivating 180-degree video, the tour provides an intimate glimpse into the winery’s transformation to organic practices. But the adventure doesn’t end there, as a delightful picnic basket, catering to various dietary needs, awaits to complete this unforgettable exploration of Alsace’s rich culinary and viticultural heritage.
Key Points
- The Gertwiller Cellar Tour offers a guided 1.5-hour experience showcasing the winery’s history, winemaking traditions, and organic conversion practices.
- Visitors can sample a selection of five wines from the Alsace region along with an immersive 180° video on the winemaking process.
- A picnic basket with local delicacies, including a pretzel, bread, cheeses, and deli items, is included in the tour package.
- Vegetarian options and free admission for children make the experience family-friendly and accommodating for various dietary requirements.
- The tour boasts an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, offering excellent value for money and a memorable experience for all visitors.
Tour Overview
The Gertwiller wine tour offers a guided cellar experience lasting approximately 1.5 hours.
It’s available in English and French, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Priced at $38.92 per person, the tour provides excellent value.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility.
The tour’s availability varies, so it’s recommended to check the schedule beforehand.
Wine Tasting Experience
Guests on the Gertwiller wine tour can sample a selection of five different wines from the winery.
During the tasting, visitors will watch an immersive 180° video about Alsace wine-making, which is suitable for all ages. The video provides an educational component to the experience, enhancing one’s understanding of the region’s winemaking traditions.
The tasting takes place in the family cellar, which dates back to 1850 and features century-old oak barrels still in use today. This unique setting adds to the authenticity of the tasting and allows guests to truly enjoy the winery’s rich history and traditions.
Immersive Video
One of the unique features of the Gertwiller wine tour is the immersive 180° video projected on the oak barrels in the family cellar.
This audiovisual experience showcases the winery’s rich history and work philosophy. Visitors are captivated as the movie plays on the century-old oak barrels that are still in use today.
The video provides an engaging and educational component to the tour, suitable for all ages. This innovative approach allows guests to truly enjoy the winemaking process and gain a deeper appreciation for the Alsace region’s wine heritage.
Organic Conversion
Notably, the cellar was renovated in 2020 following the organic conversion of the estate. This transition to organic viticulture aligns with the winery’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Some key benefits of the organic conversion include:
- Reduced use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, promoting soil health and biodiversity
- Adoption of natural methods to control pests and diseases, minimizing the winery’s ecological footprint
- Emphasis on hand-harvesting grapes to preserve their quality and integrity
- Implementation of energy-efficient technologies in the cellar for a more environmentally-friendly winemaking process
The organic conversion reinforces the winery’s dedication to producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines while respecting the land and its resources.
Picnic Basket Contents
The picnic basket provided as part of the Gertwiller wine tour includes an assortment of local delicacies.
Guests can enjoy a pretzel, bread, three cheeses, and three deli items. Plus, the basket contains a small bottle of water, fruit, cutlery, a napkin, and a bag.
Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Children can also partake in the picnic experience, receiving the same basket if ordered, or they can join the tour for free without a picnic basket.
The carefully curated contents of the picnic basket allow visitors to savor the flavors of Alsace while immersed in the wine country’s charm.
Vegetarian and Children’s Options
As part of the Gertwiller wine tour, the cellar offers vegetarian options for the picnic basket upon prior notice. This caters to those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the experience.
Plus, children are welcome on the tour, and they’ll receive the same picnic basket if reserved. Otherwise, the visit is free for them without the picnic basket. This makes the Gertwiller wine tour an excellent choice for families.
- Vegetarian option available with prior notice
- Children receive full picnic basket if reserved
- Children’s visit is free without picnic basket
- Ideal for families and those with dietary needs
Customer Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Gertwiller wine tour, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 11 reviews.
They’ve particularly highlighted the tour’s value for money, awarding it 4 out of 5 stars.
The experience caters to a diverse range of travelers, including couples, groups of friends, solo adventurers, and families.
Whether you’re seeking an educational wine tasting or a delightful picnic, the Gertwiller cellar tour seems to deliver a memorable and satisfying experience for all who venture there.
Availability and Booking
To experience the Gertwiller wine tour, visitors can check availability and book their spot. The tour operates on select dates, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Booking is easy and convenient:
- Check the tour calendar for upcoming availability.
- Select your preferred date and time.
- Provide the number of guests and any special requirements.
- Secure your booking with a payment.
- Receive a confirmation with all the details.
With flexible scheduling and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, visitors can easily fit the Gertwiller wine tour into their Alsace itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit the Cellar Without Participating in the Wine Tasting?
Yes, visitors can tour the cellar without participating in the wine tasting. The cellar tour is offered as a standalone experience, so you’re not required to take part in the wine tasting.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour may be suitable for people with mobility issues, as it includes a guided cellar visit. However, the availability of accessibility accommodations is not explicitly stated, so visitors with special needs should inquire about the facility’s accessibility prior to booking.
What Is the Dress Code for the Cellar Tour?
The tour has no specific dress code. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes, as the cellar tour involves walking on uneven surfaces. The tour is suitable for all attire, from casual to smart casual.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Cellar?
The tour does not allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. A picnic basket can be purchased as part of the experience, but outside food and beverages are not permitted on the cellar tour.
Do I Need to Make a Reservation in Advance for the Tour?
Yes, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance for the tour. The tour’s availability and starting times vary, so booking ahead ensures you can secure a spot for the date and time that work best for you.
Sum Up
This Alsace Cellar Tour offers an immersive experience, blending wine tastings, an informative video, and a delightful picnic basket. Visitors can explore the winery’s heritage, sample five exquisite wines, and savor local delicacies, all in a family-friendly setting. With vegetarian and children’s options available, it’s an excellent value that provides an unforgettable glimpse into the winemaking traditions of Alsace.