Alsace Flashcards
What is the Climate of Alsace?
Cool Continental Climate
What are the mountains that protect Alsace?
The Vosage
What do the Vosage Mountains create for Alsace?
The mountains act as a rain shield creating a micro-climate in Alsace making it one of the driest regions in France.
What is the average yearly rainfall in Alsace?
500ml
What are the two sub-districts of Alsace?
Bas-Rhin (North)
Haut-Rhin (South)
Which of Alsace’s subregions is deemed more superior?
Haut-Rhin
What are the soils in the best vineyards?
Thin top soils with sub-soils of weathered Gneiss, Granite, Sandstone, Schist & Volcanic sediment
What are the 4 Noble grapes of Alsace?
Riesling
Gewurtztraminer
Pinot Gris
Muscat
What is the one exception to the Noble grapes in Alsace?
Sylvaner - Can only produce Grand cru wines from Zotzenberg
Besides the 4 Noble varieties what other white grapes are permitted in Alsace?
Sylvaner
Pinot Blanc
Chasselas
Auxerrois
Chardonnay (only permitted for blending into crémant d’Alsace)
What is the only permitted Red varietal in Alsace wine?
Pinot Noir
When was Alsace Grand cru first introduced to the region?
1975
How many Grand cru vineyards are there in Alsace?
51 Grand cru Sites
What is the only Grand cru to not use one of the 4 Noble grapes? What is the grape used?
Zotzenberg, Sylvaner
What is the most important variety for Crémant d’Alsace?
Pinot Blanc