Dopff-Irion Winery

Nestled in the heart of Alsace, France, the Dopff & Irion winery stands as a testament to centuries of winemaking tradition and innovation. Located in the picturesque village of Riquewihr, often hailed as one of France's most beautiful villages, this estate seamlessly blends historical charm with modern viticulture.

A Legacy Rooted in History

The origins of Dopff & Irion trace back to 1945, when René Dopff and Madame Veuve Irion, two prominent figures in Alsatian viticulture, united their families' legacies to establish the winery. Their collaboration marked a significant shift in winemaking philosophy, emphasizing the importance of terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and geography—over traditional grape varietal classifications. This approach led to the division of the Château de Riquewihr's vineyards into four distinct estates: Les Murailles, Les Sorcières, Les Maquisards, and Les Amandiers, each dedicated to expressing the character of its specific terroir (unique combination of natural factors that influence its taste).

The Château de Riquewihr: A Historic Landmark

Central to the estate is the Château de Riquewihr, an imposing structure dating back to 1549. Originally the residence of the Princes of Württemberg, the château now serves as both the winery's headquarters and a symbol of its deep-rooted heritage. Visitors can explore the historic wine cellars and partake in guided tastings, experiencing firsthand the fusion of history and oenology.

A Diverse and Acclaimed Portfolio

Dopff & Irion cultivates approximately 27 hectares of vineyards, including prestigious Grand Cru sites such as Schoenenbourg and Sporen. Their portfolio showcases a range of wines that reflect the diversity of Alsace's terroirs. Notable offerings include:

Crémant d'Alsace Brut Rosé: A sparkling wine celebrated for its finesse and vibrant character.
Les Murailles Riesling: A dry, mineral-driven Riesling that exemplifies the purity of the grape.
Cuvée René Dopff Gewürztraminer: A richly aromatic wine with notes of rose and exotic fruits.
Crustacés: A blend of Sylvaner and Pinot Blanc, designed to pair perfectly with seafood.

These wines have garnered international recognition, with selections served at prestigious events, including the launch of the luxury liner "France" in 1962 and state dinners at the Élysée Palace.

Visiting Dopff & Irion

For those seeking an immersive wine experience, Dopff & Irion offers guided tours and tastings at their estate in Riquewihr. Guests can explore the historic cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a selection of wines that embody the essence of Alsace. The estate's commitment to hospitality ensures a memorable visit for wine enthusiasts and novices alike.

Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or new to the world of wine, a journey through the storied halls of Dopff & Irion promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and exceptional winemaking.

Sources & Links:

Historical Background & Estate Information

Dopff & Irion Official Website
https://www.dopff-irion.com/en/presentation/history
(History, estate philosophy, winemaking practices, and Château de Riquewihr.)
Prestige Le Droit
https://prestigeledroit.com/portfolio/dopff-and-irion
(Background on the merger of the Dopff and Irion families, vineyard division by terroir, and estate development.)
Alsace Wine Route – Official Tourism Site
https://www.wineroute.alsace/229002815-wine-growing-estate-chateau-de-riquewihr-dopff-irion
(Visitor information, tasting experiences, and château tourism highlights.)
Dreyfus, Ashby & Co. – Dopff & Irion Profile
https://dreyfusashby.com/dopff-irion/
(Estate overview, wine classifications, and importer background.)
Best of Wines – Dopff & Irion Overview
https://bestofwines.com/wine/france/alsace/dopff-irion/
(Details on vineyard acreage, varietals, and historical accolades.)
Vins d’Andurand – Wine Producers Page
https://www.vinsdandurand.com/en/wine-producers/dopff-irion
(Producer profile highlighting export markets, styles, and family heritage.)
Tasting Book – 'The World's Largest Fine Wine Information Platform' https://tastingbook.com/p/dopff_irion (multi-faceted website for wine information)

Wine Portfolio & Tasting Notes

International Wine and Spirits Competition – IWSC Wine Awards https://www.iwsc.net/site/search?q=dopff+%26+Irion
Northampton Wine + Dine – Pinot Blanc 2022, Riesling 2023, Gewurztraminer 2016 & Crustaces 2022
Details on production methods and tasting notes https://northamptonwineanddine.com/?s=dopff+%26+irion
Surdyk’s – Crustacés Wine Overview
Insights into the wine's composition and its suitability for various food pairings.
https://surdyks.com/dopff-irion-crustaces-alsace