Currently, the wine vat can be viewed but is protectively behind gated bars for security reasons. There have been very few tastings in its history—once in the 1500s, once more in the 1700s and the last tasting was by General Leclerc in 1944 upon the liberation of Strasbourg during World War II.

That said, we do know that the wine is a white Alsatian wine, with a 9.4 percent alcohol content, a complex nose and flavorful aromas that include eucalyptus, clove, coconut and thyme. Experts have taken samples over the years with modern analysis tools to make these discoveries.

And while you’re unlikely to sneak a taste of this particular wine, you might choose to either visit the wine cellar and museum during your free time in Strasbourg (your Cruise Manager can help you with any planning)—or choose to enjoy the region’s sublime wines while toasting to its wonderful history!

Strasbourg of course is the capital of Alsace, which is one of the top wine areas in wine-rich France. The region is often considered France’s white wine capitol, and it is known for its highly aromatic flavors.

Enjoy the taste and aroma of Alsatian wine in Strasbourg on our Rhine River wine cruises, including: Swiss Alps & Rhine Castles, Enchanting Rhine and Rhine & Moselle Splendors.