Alsace is responsible for some of the world's greatest white wines. Most firms bottle a typical Alsatian range with at least a Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. These are accompanied by a range of other specialties from more unusual varietals such as Muscat or Pinot Blanc to the region's luscious and sought after dessert wines, Vendange Tardive and Selection des Grains Nobles. It is with the first three, however, that Alsace has crafted its sterling reputation.

The wines bare little resemblance to German versions made just over the border (or just about anywhere else for that matter). Lying in the rain shadow of a mountain range, Alsace is actually a warm and sunny climate for its northern latitude, with a plethora of fantastic sloping vineyard sites. The resultant wines are rich, ripe, and heady. They are usually fermented to dryness, and make forceful and aromatic table wines. Alsatian wines truly shine best at the table. Finally, Alsatian wines still represent some of the world's best values, with many (if not most) bottlings from the finest producers being available for less than $20. Indeed, some can be found under the $10 mark!