Sheltered by the Vosges mountains to its west, Alsace is a remarkably sunny place much neglected by many wine drinkers. It actually offers a wide panoply of flavours in its white wines, far removed from the usual Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays, while within the region itself there are many different soils producing a plethora of vineyard sites, from humble village ones to expensive grand crus. Add in the exceptional ‘vendange tardive’ late picked sweet styles, and it is a truly great area to explore. Recent warm vintages have been outstanding so you will be amply rewarded at some very good prices. Dry Muscat and Riesling from Henri Erhart at Ammerschwihr, including wine from the Kaefferkopf vineyard, recently promoted to grand cru status. If it’s Gewurztraminer that you’re after, then Domaine Bruno Sorg at Eguisheim is the grower, where François Sorg gets great richness and balance in his wines, something that many winemakers forget with this tricky grape as they let the alcohol levels get away from them.