From Morsbronn-les-Bains, the Alsace Wine Route is best discovered by its northern gateway: the Cleebourg vineyard, some ten kilometres from Wissembourg. It is a quieter, less crowded side of Alsatian wine tourism, ideal for a day out from Alsace Verte.
Cleebourg, the wine-growing gateway to the north
The Tourist Office describes the Cleebourg vineyard as lying at the far north of Alsace, some ten kilometres from Wissembourg, across around 200 hectares. Its south and south-west facing position gives the area a distinctive wine-growing character, more low-key than the busy larger villages of central Alsace.
What to look for in the glass
The area showcases Alsatian grape varieties, with production strongly focused on whites. On the Tourist Office pages, Cleebourg is cited for its grape varieties and as the gateway to the Wine Route in Northern Alsace. For a tasting, favour cellars and producers that clearly state their opening times, booking requirements and visiting conditions.
How to plan the day
A good itinerary might combine Wissembourg in the morning, a pause in the Cleebourg area, then a return through the white villages. If you are driving, keep the tasting sensible or nominate a driver. The day can also be conceived as a heritage and landscape outing rather than a tour of the cellars.
Practical guide
- Area: Cleebourg, Bremmelbach, Wissembourg and the villages of northern Alsace.
- To combine with: the fortified town of Wissembourg, the white villages, forest or a short walk.
- To check: cellar opening times, booking, tasting conditions and responsible driving.
The best angle from the Ritter’Hoft
From the Ritter’Hoft, think of the day as a triangle: Wissembourg for the heritage, Cleebourg for the vineyard, the white villages for the way back. If a tasting is on the cards, always sort out the driving first.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Wine Route begin in the north?
The Cleebourg area is presented as the wine-growing gateway to northern Alsace, close to Wissembourg.
Is Cleebourg very touristy?
It is more low-key than the large wine villages of central Alsace, which suits a stay in Alsace Verte well.
Can wine and heritage be combined?
Yes, Wissembourg, Cleebourg and the white villages make a coherent day out, provided you keep to a reasonable pace.
Sources: Alsace Verte Tourist Office, “Le vignoble de Cleebourg”, winegrower and white village pages. Tasting times must be confirmed with the cellars.
From the Ritter’Hoft
The Ritter’Hoft makes a peaceful base for exploring this northern stretch of the Wine Route without staying in the middle of the busiest tourist routes. You keep the balance between wine, villages, nature and the Alsatian table.