Where is Alsace located?
Eastern France, on the border with Germany
It is separated from the rest of France by the Vosges Mountains and from Germany by the Rhine River.
When did formal viticulture in Alsace begin?
With the Romans
Viticulture quickly flourished, and by the 16th century, Alsace wines were well known.
What significant event occurred in Alsace during World War II?
Germany occupied Alsace and mandated the removal of all existing vines
This led to a major reconstruction effort after the war.
What grape varieties are emphasized in Alsace’s quality-focused replanting?
- Riesling
- Pinot Gris
A focus on varietal wines helped Alsace gain global recognition.
What is the length and width of the Alsace region?
75 mi/120 km long and 3 mi/4.8 km wide
This slender strip of land is protected from rain-bearing winds by the Vosges Mountains.
How many hours of sunshine does Alsace enjoy?
1800+ hours
The region has warm summers and long, dry autumns, creating near perfect growing conditions.
What types of soil are found in Alsace?
- Granite
- Schist
- Sandstone
- Volcanic rocks
- Limestone
- Clay mixes
- Alluvium
- Loess
- Colluvium
Alsace has 13 different soil types due to tectonic activity.
What percentage of Alsace’s total wine production is accounted for by co-operatives?
Approximately 40%
Many small vineyard growers sell to co-operatives or négociants.
How are most of Alsace’s wines labeled?
By grape variety rather than geographically
This reflects its German heritage.
What is the Alsace Wine Route known for?
Winding through fairytale towns with half-timbered buildings and cobblestoned streets
It starts near Strasbourg and ends just south of Colmar.
What are some notable places to explore in Strasbourg?
- Stunning cathedral
- Charming old town
Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace.
Name two quaint villages in Alsace renowned for their medieval charm.
- Riquewihr
- Eguisheim
These villages are popular tourist destinations.
What district in Colmar is known for its vibrant atmosphere?
Little Venice district
Colmar also features the Unterlinden Museum for art and history enthusiasts.
What natural feature should visitors enjoy while in Alsace?
The Vosges Mountains
The mountains provide beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
What type of wines does Alsace excel in?
Varietal, aromatic white wines
They are known for their elegance, purity, and exceptional food compatibility.
Name the four primary grape varieties with significant plantings in Alsace.
- Riesling
- Pinot Blanc
- Gewurztraminer
- Pinot Gris
Alsace is the only place in France where Riesling and Gewurztraminer are predominant.
What is the Alsace AOC?
A regional appellation representing a pure expression of the variety
It includes 51 Grands Crus, each with a distinct personality reflecting specific soils.
What percentage of Alsace’s wines are white?
Almost 90%
A massive 80% of those are made from a single variety, influencing the wine profile.
True or false: Alsatian wines are typically sweeter than their German counterparts.
FALSE
Alsatian wines are typically drier and fuller-bodied than equivalent German wines.
What are the labels for sweet wines in Alsace?
- Vendanges Tardives (VT)
- Sélection de Grains Nobles (SGN)
These wines are known for their opulence.
What is a key characteristic of the wine profile in Alsace?
Great purity of fruit and complexity
The wines show remarkable depth and intensity regardless of the grape variety.
What does AOC stand for in the context of Alsace wines?
Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée
AOC is a certification granted to certain French geographical indications for wines, cheeses, butters, and other agricultural products.
What does Vendanges Tardives mean?
Late harvest
The grapes are picked when they are extremely ripe and may or may not be affected by Botrytis cinerea.
What are Selection de Grains Nobles wines made from?
Botrytis-affected grapes
These wines are only made from grapes that have been affected by the noble rot.
