Alsace Flashcards
What are the four Noble Grapes?
Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer
These grapes are highly regarded for their quality in wine production.
What is an Edelzwicher?
Blended wines ‘Noble mixture’
This term refers to a style of blended wines in Alsace.
What does Gentil refer to in wine terms?
Blended wines of 50% Noble varieties
This is considered an unofficial term for certain blends.
What does VT stand for in wine terminology?
Vendages Tardines
This translates to ‘Late Harvest’ and indicates a focus on fruit purity.
What is the significance of Passerillage?
A process related to late harvest wines
This technique enhances the concentration of sugars and flavors in grapes.
What does SGN stand for?
Selection de Grains Noble
This term indicates a wine made from grapes affected by botrytis.
What climate influences the vineyards in Alsace?
Continental Climate
This climate type is characterized by distinct seasonal variations.
What major geographical feature blocks rainfall in Alsace?
Vosgues Mountains
These mountains create a rain shadow effect, benefiting viticulture.
Which river is significant to the climate of Alsace?
Rhine River
The Rhine River contributes to the region’s unique climate conditions.
Name three soil types found in Alsace vineyards.
- Granite
- Limestone
- Schist
These soils influence the flavor profiles of the wines produced.
What are the different soil types present in Alsace?
- Clay
- Gravel
- Chalk
- Loess
- Gres de Vosgues (local pink sandstone)
Each soil type contributes differently to the characteristics of the wines.
What is the significance of Bas Rhin and Haut Rhin in Alsace?
Bas Rhin upper, Haut Rhin lower (⅔ Alsace grand crus)
These regions are known for their grand cru vineyards.
Name two important grand crus in Alsace.
- Zotzenberg (Sylvaner)
- Hengst & Kitchberg (Pinot Noir)
These grand crus are noted for their exceptional quality.
Which grand cru is the smallest in Alsace?
Kanzelberg (smallest 3 hectares)
This grand cru is known for its limited production area.
Which grand cru is the largest in Alsace?
Schlossberg (biggest 80 hectares)
This grand cru encompasses a significant area for cultivation.
What is AOC in the context of Alsace wine?
Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée
This designation signifies the controlled origin of the wine.
What grape variety is Klever associated with?
Pinot Blanc
This grape is part of the Alsace wine production.
What grape variety is Gutedel associated with?
Chasselas
This variety is also grown in Alsace and is known for its versatility.
What are the four Noble Grapes?
Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer
These grapes are highly regarded for their quality in wine production.
What is an Edelzwicher?
Blended wines ‘Noble mixture’
This term refers to a style of blended wines in Alsace.
What does Gentil refer to in wine terms?
Blended wines of 50% Noble varieties
This is considered an unofficial term for certain blends.
What does VT stand for in wine terminology?
Vendages Tardines
This translates to ‘Late Harvest’ and indicates a focus on fruit purity.
What is the significance of Passerillage?
A process related to late harvest wines
This technique enhances the concentration of sugars and flavors in grapes.