France : Alsace and Loire Valley

Question 1

Why and when was the AOC system established? Who monitors the AOC system?

Question 2

What does the French AOC/AOP attempt to regulate?

Question 3

What assurances does AOC/AOP offer the consumer?

Question 4

How did the change to the EU labeling regulations in 2008/9 affect France?

Question 5

How does the US system of AVAs differ from the French AOC system?

Question 6

What are the classifications of Alsace wines and what flavor differences might one find when
comparing them?

Question 7

What are the major grape varieties grown in Alsace?

Question 8

What are the benchmark wines which Alsace is known for?

Question 9

What are the labeling requirements and how does one decode an Alsace wine label, including
important terms?

Question 10

What label terms are not regulated and thus may not provide useful information to the purchaser?

Question 11

How does Alsace’s labeling system differ from other wine regions of France?

Question 12

How does one identify sparkling and dessert style wines made in Alsace from the dry table wines made
there?

Question 13

How does Alsace’s climate and geography influence its wine styles?

Question 14

What winemaking practices (if any) are unique to Alsace?

Question 15

What are the major grape varieties grown in Loire?

Question 15

What are the classifications of Loire wines and what flavor differences might one find when comparing
them?

Question 16

What are the benchmark wines which come from the Loire?

Question 16

How does one identify sparkling and dessert style wines made in the Loire Valley from the Loire’s dry
table wines?

Question 16

What are the labeling requirements and how does one decode a Loire wine label?

Question 17

How does the Loire’s climate and geography influence its wine styles?

Question 18

What historic events influenced the growth of the wine industry in the Loire?

Question 19

What winemaking practices (if any) are unique to the Loire?

Question 20

What label terms are not regulated and thus may not provide useful information to the purchaser?

Question 21

Are there individuals who made a significant impact on the wine industry in any of these countries?