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Exploring the Gertwiller: Alsace Cellar Tour, Wine Tasting & Picnic Basket

If you’re planning a trip to Alsace and want to combine history, wine, and a touch of local charm, the Gertwiller cellar tour with wine tasting and picnic offers a standout experience. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a thoughtfully curated journey that balances education, sensory delights, and scenic relaxation.

What makes this experience attractive? First, visiting a cellar dating back to 1850 means stepping into a space filled with stories — and century-old oak barrels that still produce wine today. Second, the unique 180° immersive video projection on those very barrels promises a visual treat that you won’t find elsewhere in France. Lastly, the scenic picnic in the vines wraps up the visit with a laid-back opportunity to savor local flavors amid grapevines, making the experience more than just a quick tasting.

One potential consideration: the tour runs for about 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a relaxed afternoon but might feel rushed if you’re eager to explore more of Alsace’s attractions. This experience appeals most to those interested in wine, history, and authentic local experiences, whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious traveler looking for a taste of the real Alsace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Historic Cellar: A visit to a family-owned cellar from 1850 offers a glimpse into centuries of wine-making tradition.
Innovative Experience: The 180° immersive video projected on oak barrels creates a one-of-a-kind visual narrative.
Tasting Quality Wines: Enjoy a commented tasting of five distinct Alsace wines, showcasing regional character.
Scenic Picnic Basket: Take away a thoughtfully prepared picnic with local cheeses, delicacies, wine, and more, perfect for savoring in the vineyards.
Family-Friendly: The tour is suitable for all ages, with children receiving a picnic basket if booked.
Excellent Value: The combination of guided tour, immersive experience, tasting, and picnic offers impressive value, especially considering the educational and scenic elements.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Meeting and Start

The tour begins at one of two convenient locations in Gertwiller; the exact starting point varies depending on your booking. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a knowledgeable guide (often from Zeyssolff – Au Péché Vigneron), who will set the tone for an engaging, relaxed visit. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of wine — a small but inviting gesture that hints at the quality to come.

Exploring the 1850 Family Cellar

The highlight here is the tour of the family cellar, which dates back to 1850. Walking through this space, you’ll see century-old oak barrels still in use. The history oozes from every corner, and it’s clear that this is more than just a working winery — it’s part of the local heritage.

One reviewer noted, “Den afsluttende picnic del,” which translates to “the concluding picnic part,” suggesting the experience flows smoothly from the cellar visit to the relaxation of the vineyards. The cellar’s renovation in 2020 modernized the space while preserving its historical charm.

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The 180° Immersive Video

What sets this tour apart is the 180° projection experience. Instead of a typical video, this is projected directly onto the oak barrels, creating a stunning visual environment. It’s not about wine-making processes but about the personal story of the winery owners and their work philosophy.

According to reviews, this is “a scenographic experience in the cellar, with sound work, throwing the audience in total immersion.” Reviewers like Anthony Larsen praised it as “Den afsluttende picnic del,” emphasizing how this immersive element makes the tour memorable and engaging. It’s a rare feature in French wine tourism, making it worth the trip for those seeking innovative ways to learn about their wine.

The Wine Tasting

Following the video, you’ll move to the tasting area, where you’ll sample five carefully selected Alsace wines. A guide provides commentary, sharing insights into each wine’s character, terroir, and what makes Alsace wine special. The tasting is well-regarded for its quality and variety, providing a good overview of the region’s diversity.

Guests frequently mention the value for money, noting that the selection and guidance make this a worthwhile experience. One reviewer said, “Excellent value for money. I recommend it,” highlighting how the tasting complements the immersive visuals.

The Shop and Picnic Basket

After the tasting, you’ll be invited to browse the wine shop — a perfect place to pick up a bottle or two to take home. Then, you’ll receive a locally prepared picnic basket to enjoy either on-site in the vines or later at your convenience. The basket includes a pretzel, bread, cheeses, delicacies, a small bottle of water, half a bottle of wine, and a sweet treat.

If you prefer vegetarian options, these are available with prior notice. For children, a similar picnic is provided if booked, though some guests choose to visit without children, especially if they want to focus solely on wine. The baskets are thoughtfully packed, and travelers have appreciated the hike tips included, making this picnic not just about food but also about enjoying the scenery.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short outing that doesn’t eat up your day. The group size tends to be manageable, with reviews noting the guide’s friendliness and availability for questions. The experience is conducted in English and French, accommodating a wide range of visitors.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This experience combines history, innovation, and scenic relaxation in one package. The guided cellar tour offers insight into Alsace’s wine heritage, while the immersive video adds a modern, captivating element. The chance to taste five wines, paired with the opportunity to purchase bottles, makes it a comprehensive, enjoyable, and affordable option.

The picnic basket elevates the visit from a typical tasting to a full-day experience, especially if you choose to enjoy it amid the vineyard views. The inclusion of a guide throughout ensures you get the most out of the experience, whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious traveler.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine aficionados, history buffs, and families looking for an educational outing. It’s also suitable for couples seeking a relaxed afternoon with scenic views, as well as groups wanting a social, interactive activity. The accessibility for children and the vegetarian options make it a flexible choice for mixed-age groups.

If you’re after an authentic and immersive taste of Alsace’s wine culture, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate innovative presentation combined with traditional craftsmanship.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 1.5 hours, offering a relaxed pace with plenty of time for questions and enjoying the scenery.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children are welcome. They receive a picnic basket if booked in advance, but the tour itself is open to all ages without additional charge.

Is the picnic basket vegetarian?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you notify the provider beforehand.

Can I buy wine at the end of the tour?
Absolutely. The wine shop is open after the tasting, allowing you to purchase bottles to take home.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation provided?
The tour starts at a designated meeting point in Gertwiller; transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive on your own or arrange local transport.

Is the tour suitable for non-French speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in English and French, making it accessible for a broad audience.

What makes the immersive video special?
It’s projected directly onto the century-old oak barrels, creating a 180° visual experience that tells the winery’s story in a unique and engaging way.

How much does it cost?
While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews emphasize that the experience provides excellent value, considering the guided tour, tasting, and picnic.

Can I do this experience if I don’t want the picnic?
Yes, the picnic basket is optional and designed as an add-on. You can enjoy just the tour and tasting if preferred.

Final Thoughts

The Gertwiller cellar tour with wine tasting and picnic stands out as a well-balanced blend of history, innovation, and scenic indulgence. It’s a wonderful way to learn about Alsace wines in an engaging setting, with the added thrill of a one-of-a-kind visual experience. The inclusion of a picnic makes it perfect for a leisurely afternoon, offering a taste of local life amid breathtaking vineyard scenery.

Ideal for wine lovers, families, and curious travelers alike, this tour promises excellent value. Whether you’re savoring the tasting, marveling at the immersive video, or relaxing in the vines with your picnic, you’re sure to leave with fond memories and perhaps a bottle or two to enjoy later.

If you want a taste of authentic Alsace wine culture wrapped in a modern presentation, this experience is a choice you’ll remember. Just remember to book in advance — and prepare for a delightful journey into the heart of the region’s winemaking tradition.

Note: Always check availability and specific details directly with the operator, as schedules and offerings may change.