Alsace Flashcards
When was AOP Alsace established?
1962
How many départements does Alsace cover?
Two (Haut-Rhin and Bas-Rhin).
Where are most Grand Cru sites located in Alsace?
Haut-Rhin.
What percentage of wines produced in Alsace are white?
90%
What feature provides Alsace with a dry microclimate?
The Vosges mountains’ rain shadow effect.
What soil type is found in the Alsace plain?
Alluvial soils.
What soil types are found on the lower slopes of Alsace?
Chalk.
What soil types are found on the upper slopes of Alsace?
Granite, volcanic deposits, and schist.
What is the significance of the Vosges mountains for Alsace vineyards?
They protect the region from rain, creating a dry climate.
What is required for a wine to be labeled as a varietal wine in Alsace?
It must contain 100% of the stated grape variety.
What is Edelzwicker?
A blend of any permitted grapes in Alsace.
What is Gentil?
A blend requiring at least 50% noble grapes.
Name the four noble grapes of Alsace.
Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, and Muscat.
What grape is used exclusively for Crémant d’Alsace Rosé?
Pinot Noir.
What is Pinot Blanc often blended with in Alsace?
Auxerrois
What grape is often confused with Pinot Blanc but is distinct?
Auxerrois
How many Grand Cru sites are there in Alsace?
51
What noble grapes are required for Alsace Grand Cru wines?
Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, and Muscat.
Which Grand Cru allows blending with Sylvaner?
Zotzenberg
What are the minimum alcohol levels for Riesling and Muscat in Grand Cru wines?
11%.
What are the minimum alcohol levels for Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris in Grand Cru wines?
12.5%.
Name a Grand Cru site that permits blending of multiple noble varieties.
Altenberg de Bergheim.
What is the sugar requirement for Vendange Tardive wines made from Riesling?
235 g/L.
What is the sugar requirement for Sélection de Grains Nobles wines made from Gewürztraminer?
306 g/L.