Alsace Flashcards
What 2 grapes is Alsace the only wine region growing at the AOC level?
Gewurztraminer & Riesling
T or F? Alsace became part of Germany in 1871.
True, it was annexed by Germany after the Franco-Prussian War (1870).
What are the 4 permitted grapes in Alsace Vendage Tardives, Sélection de Grains Nobles and Grand Crus?
The 4 Noble Grapes:
- Riesling
- Gewurztramier
- Pinot Gris
- Muscat
What are the 3 primary grapes of Alsace that are not native to France?
- Riesling (German)
- Sylvaner (Austrian)
- Muscat (Greek)
T or F? Edelzwicker may be a blend of any white grapes approved for Alsace AOC Wine.
True
T or F? Alsace Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim may be a blend.
True
If a blend, there must be at least 50% Riesling
T or F? There are 13 different soil types in Alsace.
True
The soil types are very complex, owing to the millions of years of geological faulting and erosion
In which century did Alsace reach it’s peak of prosperity?
The 16th century (late Renaissance)
What is the most widely planted grape in Alsace?
Riesling
Savagnin Rose has two versions, which is each known as?
Klevener (non-aromatic)
Gewurztraminer (aromatic)
pink-skinned
T or F? Grass may be planted between rows of vines to increase grape yields.
False
Grass decreases yields by competing with the vines for nutrients.
What is the climate of Alsace?
Continental, with large seasonal and diurnal temperature swings
“Tokay d’ Alsace” is a former name for?
Pinot Gris
“Tokay d’ Alsace” is no longer allowed under EU law
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 is the AOC for sparkling wine in Alsace?
Crémant d’Alsace
What is the effect of the Vosges Mountains on the vineyards in Alsace?
The Vosges Mountains provide a rain shadow that ensures mainly sunny and dry growing conditions.
T or F? It is common for Alsace wines to be aged in new oak and undergo malolactic fermentation.
False
Neither practice is common in Alsace
T or F? Machine harvesting is common in Alsace.
False
Most vineyards are hand harvested due to the steepness of the slopes.
Auxerrois Blanc is a cross between what 2 grapes?
Gouis Blanc and Pinot
What is the difference between Klevner and Klevener?
Klevner is Pinot Blanc a genetic offshoot of Pinot Gris
Klevener is the non-aromatic version of Savignan Rose, a secondary grape in Alsace
T or F? A wine labeled “Selections de Grains Nobles” MUST be made from grapes affected by Botrytis.
True
Klevner or Pinot Vrai is more commonly known as?
Pinot Blanc
T or F? Crémant d’Alsace is primarily made from Chardonnay
False
Crémant d’Alsace is mostly Pinot Blanc, but Chardonnay can be used.
What red grape is permitted in Alsace?
Pinot Noir