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Meet the Producer


Widely regarded as one of the best co-operatives in the world, Cave de Turckheim, which was founded in 1955 and recently celebrated their 70th anniversary, is situated on the double fault line of the Alsace plain and the Munster Valley. Working closely with 120 partners, its vineyards span the full breadth of Alsatian terroir and grape varieties. Cave de Turckheim only produces wine from the grapes of its member growers, it is a récoltant not a négociant. With sun-kissed slopes, a Grand Cru, and several exceptional lieux-dits (named places), these factors have forged the reputation of Turckheim for decades!

Substantial investment in the winery has enabled the team to vinify many parcels of grapes separately, offering Lilian Andriuzzi (winemaker for 25 years) the chance to highlight each wine's nuances in a signature dry, yet fruit forward, style.

Committed to producing the highest quality wines, growers are encouraged to keep yields low. For example, Cave de Turckheim voluntarily caps yields for its Grands Cru vineyards at 45hl/ha rather than the permitted 55hl/ha, and chooses to pick the grapes by hand. This is part of a long term and innovative strategy of sustainability that includes developing the largest holdings of organic vineyards in Alsace, using natural alternatives to chemical treatments, and a green overview of all vineyard practices. Alongside some great organic wines, the extensive range runs from the excellent value Tradition wines right through to individual Grand Cru bottlings, plus fantastic Crémants d’Alsace and Vendange Tardive dessert wines.

A Note on Sustainability


An awareness of social and environmental concerns has always been high on the agenda for the Cave de Turckheim’s growers. They were among the first in France to practice integrated agriculture, an approach which combines the best of modern tools and technologies with traditional practices, lowering the consumption of energy and other resources, reducing environmental pollution, conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainability. In 2015, they all obtained High Environmental Value Level 2 certification then went on to achieve the highest HVE Level 3 certification in 2019. Turckheim's growers also adhere to SMETA, which is a widely used methodology designed to access an organisation's ethical standards that includes labour rights, health and safety, and environmental impact.

In 2008, a number of growers decided to commit to the rigorous standards of organic viticulture. As part of Alliance Alsace, approximately 140 hectares of vines are now cultivated organically, and are certified as such. In fact, Turckheim is the biggest producer of organic Alsace wines. These vignerons have revived ancestral practices, tilling the soil and undertaking work that facilitates the elimination of weeds and the combat against the two major diseases: powdery mildew which is tackled with sulphur, and mildew which is treated with copper sulphate. Natural fertilisers are also used (nettle, horsetail, comfrey and dandelion), fortifying the vines and increasing their natural resistance. Organic winegrowers meticulously observe their vines, enabling them to intervene in the right place and at the right time, rather than treating the plants systematically.

Turckheim’s commitment to the environment extends to the winery where it strives to conserve natural resources. Sorting waste for recycling, reducing its carbon footprint, using solar panels, and preventing pollution are just some examples of how environmental considerations are present in every aspect of its daily work. Committed to both the environment and its customers, Cave de Turckheim also plays an important role in the local economy.

To celebrate its 65th anniversary back in 2020 (they have not long celebrated their 70th anniversary!), Cave de Turckheim planted 65 trees to contribute to the reconstruction and maintenance of their vines and terroirs, as well as to the preservation and enhancement of wider landscapes. Local and ancient varieties were specially selected to contribute to the safeguarding of their genetic heritage.

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