ALSACE Flashcards
What are the AOCs in Alsace?
Alsace, Alsace Grand Cru, Cremant d’Alsace
What are the permitted varieties for Alsace Grand Cru AOC status and where are most of the vineyards located?
Can only grow “noble” grape varieties (Gewurtztraminer, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Riesling) ; they are primarily located in the Haut-Rhin
What are the departments of Alsace?
Bas-Rhin (North, lower elevation) and Haut-Rhin (South, higher elevation)
What are unique geographic features of Alsace?
Borders Germany in NE corner of France; protected by the rain shadow of Vosges Mountains; continental climate and one of driest areas in France
What are restrictions on naming a wine after a grape variety in Alsace?
Must be 100% of named varietal
In addition to the noble varieties, what other white grapes are allowed to be grown in Alsace?
Auxerrois, Chasselas, Klevener de Heiligenstein (limited to a few communes), Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, Sylvaner and Chardonnay (only for use in Cremant d’Alsace)
How many grand cru vineyards in Alsace?
51 (each vineyard has its own appelation)
Which six grapes can Cremant d’Alsace be made from?
Auxerrois, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir (the only permitted red variety in Alsace) and Rieslng.
Pinot Blanc is most widely used as a base variety, and Pinot Gris and Riesling are often employed to add richness and elegance respectively.
What are white blends and blends with at least 50% noble varieties known as in Alsace?
“Edelzwicker” / “Gentil”
What are the two types of dessert wine Alsace is known for?
Vendange Tardive (with or w/o botrytis) and Selection de grains nobles (botrytis only)
What is a wine labeled “Pinot Alsace”?
An Alsatian white that uses any combo of Pinot Blanc/Gris/Noir or Auxerrois
What percentage of Alsatian wine does Cremant d’Alsace comprise?
~23%
