Alsace Flashcards
When did Alsace receive AOC status?
1962
Which 2 environmental landmarks are either side of Alsace?
The Vosges to the west and the Rhine River to the east
How long is Alsace north to south?
185km
What are the 2 departments of Alsace?
The Haut-Rhin in the south and the Bas-Rhin in the north
What 3 major impacts does the Vosges have on the vineyards of Alsace?
They protect from prevailing westerly winds off the Atlantic
They create a rain shadow over Alsace making it very dry
They provide altitude, with some of the hillsides reaching 1400m
What is the climate of Alsace?
Cool continental
What percentage of Alsace is made up of white grapes?
90%
What are the 4 noble grapes of Alsace?
Riesling
Pinot Gris
Muscat (Blanc a Petits Grains, Rose a Petits Grains, Ottonel)
Gewürztraminer
What are the other permitted grapes of Alsace?
Pinot Blanc (Klevner)
Chasselas (Gutedal)
Sylvaner
Auxerrois
Pinot Noir
Describe a typical Alsation Riesling
Crisp citrus and pure minerality. Bone dry, high acidity, high alcohol
Describe a typical Alsation Pinot Gris
Aromas of spicy-smoke and sweeter citrus
Full bodied and rich with medium acidity
Describe a typical Alsation Muscat
Floral and grapey aromas with a medium body and medium-high acidity
Describe a typical Alsation Gewurztraminer
Highly aromatic with sweet spice and tropical fruit, particularly lychee
Low in acidity and high in alcohol, often off-dry
What is Edelzwicker?
A noble mixture, often without a vintage date and inexpensive
What does gentil mean?
A blend with a minimum 50% of noble grapes
What city is the central hub of the Haut-Rhin?
Colmar
What are clos vineyards?
Vineyards which are self-contained, and normally represent quality