Open-air dining in the heart of Alsace’s wine region is the tempting summertime offer available at Domaine Sohler. Located in Nothalten on the Alsace Wine Road, this welcoming family estate boasts High Environmental Value certification and has a well-developed sense of hospitality. Guests meet at the property in late afternoon for an unforgettable evening in an enchanting setting, where nature exists in harmony with those who cultivate it.

The experience begins with a visit to the cellar and an introduction to the domain's history, followed by a walk through the vineyard to understand the vine’s ecosystem, the role of terroirs and the challenges of sustainable viticulture. This educational tour ends at a beautiful table set for dinner at the top of the Muenchberg, one of Alsace’s Grands Crus. As they enjoy delicious dishes prepared by a chef and wines from the estate, guests can admire the splendid winegrowing landscape unfolding before their eyes, bathed in the glow of the setting sun. Once the final rays have vanished behind the Vosges mountains, the meal ends with a gentle walk back to the estate.

Over in Champignol-lez-Mondeville, in Champagne, the team behind “L’empreinte des fées” (Fairies’ Footprint) brings together wine loving foodies for an eco-friendly winemaker’s meal. And the menu for this gourmet experience in the vineyard? A zero waste, 100% organic and local picnic.

Referred to as a “goûton-mâchon”, this open-air lunch revolves around the traditional snacks eaten in the days when women and children would join the workers for their meal amidst the vines. Guests enjoy local produce in a rustic setting and taste champagnes produced by Domaine de Mondeville, farmed on a biodynamic basis by the Dumont family. This relaxing moment is also a great chance to speak to members of this family of winemakers and vine-growers and discover, with them, the biodiversity that fills the slopes. The perfect mix of nature and epicurean delights!