Alsace Flashcards
When did the romans take possession of the Alsace region? When did they begin planting vines?
58BC take control of the area, start planting vines in the 2nd century
What was King Charlemagne’s nickname?
Pater vinaerum - The father of the vines
How did King Charlemagne influence the wine trade in Alsace?
Throughout 8th, 9th centuries, he entrusts the vines to abbeys, churches and nobility
In which century did Alsatian wines see a large increase in popularity? How much land was under vine?
15th, 16th centuries, wines grow an appreciation in Nordic countries. The area under vine was double what it is today
When were Riesling, Muscat and Traminer declared noble grapes of Alsace?
Riesling 1477
Muscat 1523
Traminer 1551
When did Alsace become part of the German empire? What was the effect on its wine industry?
- Vines were ripped up for more productive plants
Why are the soil structures of Alsace so complex? How many soil types?
Due to the Rhine valley - 13 soil types
How was the Rhine valley formed?
After initially being under sea level, the Rhineland mountain was formed, which then collapsed 50 million years ago, with the Rhine river carving its way through the sedimentary rock over time
What are the 2 geological factors that protect the Alsace?
Vosges mountains to the west, Black forrest to the east
What are the main soil types of Alsace? What are their effects on wine styles?
Marly sandstone: lively, fruity
Granite and gneiss: Pure, fresh
Schist: Pure wine with ageing potential. Suitable for Riesling
Clay marls: Body, opulent aromas, complexity
What are the main cities of Alsace?
Strasbourg - capital city, administrative
Colmar - wine capital
When was the Alsace AOC declared?
1962
What are the 2 bottle types permitted under AOC Alsace wines?
Vin du rhin
Flute Alsacienne
What are the 5 permitted Grand Cru grapes?
Riesling
Gewurztraminer
Muscat
Pinot Gris
Pinot Noir (as of 2022)
How does Alsace Grand Cru differ from other regions?
Grand Cru is it’s own seperate AOP