Mittelwihr: Christmas of yesteryear at the winemaker’s

When it comes to celebrating Christmas in France, Alsace offers a special kind of magic, blending centuries-old traditions with stunning vineyard scenery. One tour that captures this essence is the “Christmas of Yesteryear at the Winemaker’s” in Mittelwihr. This 1.5-hour experience, offered at just $29 per person, combines a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking, a heartfelt holiday show, and a generous wine tasting—perfect for those seeking a cozy, authentic, and slightly nostalgic holiday escape.

What really hooks us is the tour’s focus on genuine local traditions, especially the personal touch of chatting with a passionate winemaker and experiencing a warm, family-style Christmas story. However, do keep in mind that the show is in French and the tour is relatively short, so it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity and are comfortable with some language barriers. This tour is ideal for wine lovers, families, and those wanting a less commercial, more heartfelt holiday experience in Alsace.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Get a real taste of Alsace’s Christmas traditions through storytelling and a festive show.
• Behind-the-Scenes Winemaking: Tour the cellar, see equipment, and understand the winemaking process from harvest to bottling.
• Warm, Personal Atmosphere: Meet the winemaker and his family, adding a human touch to your holiday visit.
• Gourmet Wine Tasting: Sample four wines—dry, fruity, and sweet—paired with traditional small Christmas treats.
• Scenic Location: Mittelwihr offers picturesque vineyard views and a charming, historically significant village.
• Value for Money: At $29, this tour packs in cultural insights, a festive show, and tastings, making it a good deal for a unique holiday outing.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Location & Setting: The Heart of Alsace

Mittelwihr is a small but vibrant village located along the famous Alsace Wine Route, between Riquewihr and Kaysersberg. Known as the “Midi of Alsace” due to its microclimate, this area enjoys a climate conducive to almond trees blooming amid the vines—an enchanting sight during winter when most of Europe is blanketed in snow. The village’s history is poignant, having been nearly destroyed during the battles of the Colmar pocket in late 1944, which lends a resilient, authentic charm to its present-day appeal.

The Winemaker’s Cellar Tour

The tour kicks off with a visit to the winemaker’s cellar—an essential peek behind the scenes. We loved how this wasn’t just a quick look but a comprehensive glance at the daily work involved in making Alsace wines. You’ll see the equipment used in every step, from harvesting to bottling, and visit the winemaker’s lab, where they juggle roles as mechanic, oenologist, and cellar master. This hands-on perspective turns what could be a sterile tasting into a genuine insight into the passion and effort that goes into each bottle.

Reviewers appreciated the detail in this part, with one mentioning, “You really get to see what a winemaker does and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.” Another noted how friendly and approachable the winemaker was, making the behind-the-scenes access all the more enjoyable.

The Christmas of Yesteryear Show

Next up is the highlight for many: a nostalgic Christmas show hosted in French by Delphine, the winemaker’s wife. She recounts her childhood memories, sharing stories of her grandma’s holiday traditions, connected through a small gift that sparks vivid memories. The show blends storytelling, traditional Alsatian songs, and legends, creating a warm, family-style atmosphere.

The show is designed to evoke feelings of Christmas past, emphasizing the importance of family, tradition, and local flavors. We found that, even if language is a barrier, the expressive storytelling and music make it accessible and charming. One reviewer said, “It transported me back to my childhood Christmases, and I loved the personal touch.”

Wine & Christmas Treats

No Alsace tour would be complete without tasting the local wines, and here you get four carefully selected samples. The tasting includes a variety of styles—dry, fruity, and sweet—allowing you to discover which you prefer. Accompanied by bredalas (small Christmas cookies), this pairing is both festive and educational.

Guests have described the wine tasting as “generous,” and the staff’s approachable attitude makes it easy to ask questions about the wines. One visitor added, “It was fun to compare the different flavors and see how they pair with Christmas treats.” This portion of the tour offers the chance to form your own opinions and maybe even find a new favorite Alsatian wine to bring home.

Practical Details & Value

The tour takes place at the estate, located at 22 rue de Riquewihr, Mittelwihr, and lasts approximately 1.5 hours. It’s scheduled on Saturdays in December at 5 p.m., which makes it a perfect evening activity—warm, festive, and a nice break from the busy Christmas markets. The group size is limited to 25 seats, promoting a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Cost-wise, at $29, you’re getting a lot—an educational cellar tour, a heartfelt holiday show, four wines, and traditional Christmas cookies. For families, kids under 18 can attend free, making it a family-friendly outing. Reviewers have said the experience is well worth the price, especially considering the personalized attention and the authentic ambiance.

The experience’s limited duration makes it ideal for fitting into a broader Alsace itinerary, and the focus on local traditions offers a more meaningful holiday memory than the commercialized Christmas markets.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about the Alsace wine-making process, as well as families or individuals looking to experience Christmas traditions away from the crowds. Its intimate setting makes it a great choice for travelers who value authenticity and storytelling. If you’re interested in cultural history, local legends, and warm family stories, this is a perfect fit.

However, those seeking a lively, large-scale event or expecting extensive tastings may find the 1.5-hour format a bit too short. Also, since the show is in French, some knowledge of the language or a good sense of humor will help you enjoy it fully.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare opportunity to step into a family-run Alsatian estate during the festive season. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of local winemaking, a nostalgic glimpse into Christmas traditions, and a handful of tasty wines to keep the holiday spirit alive.

The warmth, authenticity, and scenic beauty of Mittelwihr make this experience a standout for those looking to enjoy a more personal, less commercialized Christmas outing. The combination of cellar insights, storytelling, and wine tasting delivers a well-rounded, memorable holiday experience in one of France’s most picturesque regions.

If your goal is to experience Christmas with a local, heartfelt touch—beyond the glitter and crowds—this tour is an excellent choice. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Alsace’s proud traditions and enjoy a cozy winter evening in a beautiful vineyard setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, kids under 18 can attend for free, making it a family-friendly option, especially if your children enjoy stories and wine tasting (adults only).

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1.5 hours, which allows enough time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

What language is the show in?
The show is performed in French. While some knowledge of the language helps, the expressive storytelling and music make it accessible even if you don’t speak fluently.

Where exactly does the tour take place?
At the estate located at 22 rue de Riquewihr, Mittelwihr, in the heart of Alsace’s vineyards.

When are the tours available?
They run on Saturdays in December at 5:00 p.m., perfect for an evening activity.

What is included in the price?
A cellar tour with the winemaker, the Christmas show, four wines for tasting, and small Christmas cookies (bredalas).

How many people will be on the tour?
Group sizes are capped at 25, ensuring an intimate and personal experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during the busy holiday season, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before.