Synvira: Young Winemakers Reveal the Secrets of Alsace’s Terroirs

The map you are about to explore is the result of four years of dedicated work by a collective of passionate young Alsatian winemakers. Their goal? To create a precise mapping of the region’s vineyard terroirs, highlighting the authenticity and origin of Alsace wines.

It all began with the desire to pinpoint the locations mentioned on wine labels. The first drafts of the vineyard maps, created village by village, focused solely on the vineyard cadastre. These early versions, crafted over a year, allowed the team to outline the boundaries of existing Crus down to individual plots.

Mapping to Preserve Viticultural Heritage

The true strength of this project lies in its precision and the collective effort behind it. Each winemaker contributed by consulting neighbors, local wine unions, and village elders, gathering valuable insights about forgotten lieux-dits and age-old practices.

This collaborative work, spanning an additional two years, refined the map, incorporating nuanced details and presenting a modern-day vision of Alsatian wine-growing practices. The thoughtful use of colors—from the darkest shades for Grands Crus to lighter hues for AOC areas—enhances readability and reflects the ambitions of the winemakers.

An Ode to Terroir and Local Craftsmanship

The map highlights the wide range of Alsace lieux-dits, celebrating the region’s rich vineyard heritage and the commitment of winemakers to honor the unique identity of each terroir. More than just a map, this project encourages the discovery of Alsace’s heritage and pays tribute to the artisans who transform each plot into a distinctive wine.

Acknowledgments:
Heartfelt thanks to all the dedicated winemakers, Sylvain Perot-Minot for his cartographic expertise, and Jean Eichholtzer for his crucial contribution to the map’s clarity.