Alsace Flashcards
What type of bottle is commonly used for wines in both Germany and Alsace?
The “flute”, a long-tapered bottle.
What is the AOC for sparkling wine in Alsace?
Crémant d’Alsace AOC
Alsace became a part of Germany in what year?
- It was annexed after the Franco-Prussian War.
What is the difference between Klevner and Klevener?
Klevner is Pinot Blanc, a genetic mutation of Pinot Gris. Klevener is Savagnin Rose, a secondary grape in Alsace.
Alsace Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim must be blended with…
50 percent Riesling
T or F? Alsace is the only region in France where Riesling is permitted.
False. Riesling is now permitted in IGP Pays d’Oc which can source fruit from Languedoc and Roussillon.
T or F? Alsace is the most northerly wine region in France.
False. Champagne is slightly farther to the north than Alsace.
What are four German influences on Alsace wines?
Varietal labeling, flute bottle, Riesling and German phonics
What is the effect of the Vosges Mountains on vineyards in Alsace?
The Vosges provide a rain shadow that ensures mainly sunny and dry growing conditions.
What is the impact of global climate change on the dryness of Alsace wines?
Sugar levels are rising and more off-dry wines are being produced.
What percentage of Alsace wine is white?
90 percent
What is the most widely-planted grape in Alsace?
Riesling
T or F? A wine labeled “Sélections de Grains Nobles” must be made from grapes affected by botrytis
True. This is a requirement.
What are the four noble white varieties in Alsace?
Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer
On which bottles of Alsace wine is vintage labeling optional?
Edelzwicker
T or F? In Alsace, Grand Cru wines may be red or white.
False. Grand Crus are white only.
What are the two Muscats grown in Alsace?
Muscat à Petits Grains Blanc and Muscat Ottonel. (Muscat à Petits Grains is considered higher quality.)
The Sylvaner grape, although grown in Alsace, is believed to be native to . . .
. . . Austria
Savagnin Rose is also known as . . .
. . . Klevener (not to be confused with Klevner).
“Tokay d’Alsace” is a former name for . . .
. . Pinot Gris. “Tokay d’Alsace” is no longer permitted under EU law.
Klevner or Pinot Vrai is more commonly known as . . .
. . . Pinot Blanc.
Klevener (not to be confused with Klevner) is also known as . . .
. . . Savagnin Rose
T or F? In Alsace, Chardonnay is used mainly as a component of a blend.
True. Chardonnay is used in Crémant d’Alsace
T or F? A wine labeled “Alsace AOC” can be still or sparkling.
False. Sparkling wines are labeled “Crémant d’Alsace”. They are a separate appellation.
What are the seven primary grape varieties in Alsace?
Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Sylvaner, Muscat
T or F? In Alsace, each Grand Cru has its own separate AOC status.
True. This has been the case since 2011.