Alsace

Although 50 percent of Alsace’s wine is still made by cooperatives, the region remains the source of some of the world's finest white wines. There are myriad reasons for this: its 47.5 degrees north latitude ensures high sunshine levels; its deep continental climate and diverse array of soil types; the cultural meticulousness of the local populace; and the choice of noble varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.