Alsace Flashcards
What is the geographical latitude of Alsace?
48.3ºN
What is the average annual precipitation in Alsace?
500-600mm pa
What are the main climatic characteristics of Alsace?
Warm, Sunny and Dry
What is the range of growing degree days (GDD) in Alsace?
2200 GDD
What elevation range is typical for vineyards in Alsace?
200-400masl
What is the effect of the Fohn wind in Alsace?
Raises temperature and reduces likelihood of fungal diseases
What topographical feature provides shelter from Atlantic weather systems in Alsace?
Foothills of Vosges mountains
What is the typical aspect for the best vineyards in Alsace?
Normally facing south, south-east or south-west
How do the soils on the plains of Alsace differ from those on the hillsides?
Plains have deeper, more fertile soils; hillsides have thinner soils, lower fertility
What are the 4 main grape varieties grown in Alsace?
- Riesling
- Pinot Blanc/Auxerrois
- Gewurztraminer
- Pinot Gris
Auxerrois can be labelled as either pinot blanc or Auxerrois
What are considered noble varieties in Alsace?
- Riesling
- Pinot Gris
- Gewurztraminer
- Muscat
What is the typical alcohol content and flavor profile of Alsatian Riesling?
Medium to full body, medium alcohol, high acid, with citrus and stone fruit flavors
What are the typical characteristics of Gewurztraminer?
- Early budding and ripening
- Medium to high alcohol
- Low to medium acidity
- Pronounced lychee and peach flavors
What is the main issue affecting Gewurztraminer in Alsace?
Prone to powdery mildew, grape vine moth, and grey rot
What are the typical aromas of Pinot Blanc/Auxerrois?
Low intensity aromas of apple and peach
What are the characteristics of Pinot Gris in Alsace?
- Early budding
- Moderate yields
- Medium aromas of peach and apples
- Can be dry to sweet
What is the only black grape allowed for AOC wines in Alsace?
Pinot Noir
What are the main vineyard management practices in Alsace?
- Single or double guyot training
- Higher fruit zones to avoid frost
- Higher canopies for airflow
What percentage of Alsace AOP is certified or in conversion to organic?
Nearly 35%
What is the harvest period for Alsace vineyards?
Early September until late October
What is the typical fermentation approach for Alsatian wines?
Inert fermentation containers, minimal use of new oak
What is the maximum yield for Alsace AOC wines for Pinot Noir?
60hl/ha
What are the minimum sugar levels at harvest for Vendange Tardive for Riesling?
235gl
What are the minimum sugar levels at harvest for Selection de Grains Nobles for Gewurztraminer?
306gl
What is the significance of the Grand Cru category introduced in 1975?
Restricted to single, noble varieties
What is the main challenge facing Sylvaner in Alsace?
In decline as Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc are easier to grow
What is the primary market for Alsace wines?
71% sold in France, nearly half in supermarkets
True or False: Chaptalisation is permitted within EU limits in Alsace.
True
Fill in the blank: The average vineyard holding in Alsace is less than ______ ha.
4.7
