The annual Fête du Crémant et du Tacot unfolds in the picturesque Alsatian village of Nothalten, a setting that feels gently removed from the more bustling stops on the Wine Route. This festival is a celebration of Crémant d’Alsace, the region’s sparkling wine, combined with a nostalgic journey aboard a historic train, the ‘Tacot’. The village itself, with its half timbered houses and vineyard clad hillsides, offers a serene backdrop for this local gathering.

What You Can Do

Visitors primarily engage in extensive tastings of Crémant d’Alsace, offered by numerous local producers. Many cellars open their doors for direct visits and discussions with winemakers. A central attraction is the ride on the ‘Tacot’, a vintage train that ambles through the vineyards, connecting Nothalten with other nearby hamlets. This slow paced journey allows for a unique perspective on the landscape while enjoying a glass of sparkling wine onboard.

What They Offer

The event showcases the versatility of Crémant d’Alsace, from Brut to Rosé, often featuring specific grape varieties like Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. Beyond the sparkling offerings, some winemakers present their still Alsatian wines. The atmosphere is communal, with local musicians performing and artisans displaying their crafts. The Tacot train itself adds a distinct historical dimension to the wine experience.

Activities

Beyond the festival’s core events, the surrounding area encourages gentle exploration. Marked walking paths wind through the vineyards, offering views of the Vosges mountains. Nearby villages like Itterswiller or Dambach la Ville, with their medieval charm, are easily accessible. Cycling routes are also popular, providing another way to experience the Alsatian countryside and its wine heritage.

Food to Eat

Local gastronomy is central to the festival experience. Stalls offer traditional Alsatian fare such as tarte flambée, a thin crust pizza like dish, often prepared in wood fired ovens. Pretzels, local cheeses, and charcuterie plates are readily available, designed to pair well with the crisp Crémant. Heartier options like choucroute garnie can also be found in local eateries, providing a robust counterpoint to the sparkling wines.

Why Visit

The Fête du Crémant et du Tacot provides an authentic encounter with Alsatian wine culture, focusing on its sparkling specialty in a relaxed village setting. It offers a balance of wine tasting, historical transport, and regional culinary enjoyment, making it a distinctive local celebration.

The festival in Nothalten presents a genuine slice of Alsace. The combination of local Crémant producers and the charming Tacot train creates a memorable event. While the village can feel busy at peak times, the overall pace remains relaxed, allowing for unhurried conversations and discovery. It feels less like a commercial fair and more like a community gathering, a quality that makes it particularly appealing.