Bas-Rhin Wine Region

The Bas-Rhin wine region produces some of the best dry Riesling wines and aromatic Gewurztraminer in France. Bas Rhin, which literally means Lower Rhine, refers to its lower altitude rather than its geographical location. Alsace AOC, Cremant d'Alsace AOC, and Alsace Grand Cru AOC are the three major labels for wines produced in the region. Most vineyards are concentrated on the lower eastern slopes of the Vosges, which run north to south. The elevation ranges from 175 to 420 meters above sea level, providing an ideal balance of temperature, water drainage, and sun exposure.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Bas-Rhin!

Where is the Bas-Rhin wine region?

The Bas-Rhin wine region is located in the Grand Est region of France, along the Rhine river, bordering Germany. Bas Rhin is the northern half of the Alsace wine region, closer to Strasbourg, Alsace's capital. The region is bounded to the north by the Palatinate forest, to the east by Baden, to the south by Haut Rhin, to the south by Colmar, and to the west by the Moselle. This picturesque wine region is located 465 kilometers east of Paris. Strasbourg, the region's most populous city, is the region's largest town. 

History of the Bas-Rhin wine region

Julius Caesar, a Roman legion, conquered the region in the first century. Since then, the region has been romanized until it was conquered by the Franks in the late fifth century. The medieval period saw the development of the entire region, resulting in the formation of important cities such as Strasbourg, Colmar, and Haguenau. Bas-Rhin is one of the departments established during the French Revolution in March 1790. For centuries, the area has been a point of interest for two mega-European powers, France and Germany, as the region was in conflict, which was reflected in the town's architecture. Following Germany's defeat in World War I, the region was returned to France under the Treaty of Versailles.

The terroir and geography of the Bas-Rhin wine region

The region is bounded to the west by the Vosges mountains, a range of low mountains, and to the east by the Rhine river, which borders Germany. The majority of the vineyards are concentrated on the lower eastern slopes of the Vosges mountain range, which runs north to south. This narrow strip of land has an ideal temperature, well-draining soil, and plenty of sunlight. The best vineyards in the region face southwest, benefiting from more sun exposure. The area benefits from a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. The region receives 700mm of rain per year on average.

Popular grape varieties from the Bas-Rhin wine region

Because the region is heavily influenced by German wine culture, Bas-Rhin wines are not dissimilar to German wines. Riesling is the most prominent grape variety in the region, but other grape varieties are used to produce some notable wines. Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris are other grape varietals grown in the region. Bas-Rhin wines are distinguished by their aromatic profile, which includes floral and fruity notes. The wines have a medium body and moderate alcohol content.

Food to pair with Bas-Rhin wine 

Smoked Salmon

Smoked salmon, which has been around since ancient times, is a popular dish all over the world and is also used as an ingredient in many cuisines. Smoking salmon allows the meat to be used for longer periods of time. It was also used in the cuisines of the Greeks and Romans. The smoked salmon is made by salting the salmon and allowing it to cure. There are only a few factories that produce smoked salmon using traditional methods, despite the fact that tons are commercially produced.

Sushi

Sushi is the most popular dish in Japanese cuisine, and it is enjoyed all over the world. The dish is straightforward and typically made with a rich filling wrapped in dry seaweed. Sushi has numerous variations, including various toppings and ingredients. The sticky rice used to make sushi is typically vinegared. The dry riesling from the Bas Rhin wine region complements sushi with a light sugar coating.

Samgyeopsal

Samgyeopsal, a South Korean dish made from roasted pork belly, is one of the best. In Korea, the dish is very popular and is eaten twice a week on average. The term Samgyeopsal refers to the three-layered pieces of meat found in pork belly. The dish gained popularity in the mid-twentieth century as the price of alcohol and pork fell. The dish is frequently accompanied by lettuce, raw garlic, chilies, kimchi, and other sauces. Sesame oil, chili paste, and soybean paste are also served as side dishes. This incredible dish pairs beautifully with the dry riesling from the Bas Rhin wine region.

Places to visit in the Bas-Rhin wine region

Strasbourg Cathedral

Strasbourg Cathedral, also known as Notre Dame Cathedral, is a catholic cathedral that is regarded as the finest example of Gothic art. Erwin Von Steinbach designed this masterpiece, which began construction in 1015. In the 15th century, the cathedral was finished. The cathedral is 142 meters tall and was the world's tallest building from 1647 to 1874. It is now the sixth tallest church in the world. Because of its sandstone exterior, the cathedral is said to change color depending on the time of day and the color of the sky. The best time to see the cathedral is said to be on a summer evening. Visit this masterpiece while in the Bas Rhin region.

Palais Rohan

Palais Rohan, also known as Rohan palace, is the residence of the Rohans, an ancient French noble family from Brittany. Amazing architectural feats with historical and cultural significance can be found in the palace. The palace is located near the Strasbourg Cathedral, which features French Baroque architecture. This masterpiece was designed by Robert de Cotte and built in the 1730s. Noble families, monarchs, the state, the university, and, finally, the municipality owned the palace. The palace has housed three of Strasbourg's most important museums since the nineteenth century, including the Archaeological Museum in the basement, the Museum of Decorative Arts on the ground floor, and the Museum of Fine Arts on the first and second floors. Since 1920, the palace has been a part of the Monument Historique.

Frequently asked questions about Bas-Rhin