Alsace wine

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Alsace wine refers to the wine produced in the Alsace region located in France. This region is particularly known for its dry Riesling, but it also produces a variety of other white wines, including Gewürztraminer, Pinot gris, Pinot blanc, and Muscat. Alsace wines are unique in the French wine landscape, often characterized by their aromatic profile, dryness, and the use of varietal labeling, which is more common in New World wine regions than in France.

History

The history of Alsace wine dates back to Roman times when the region was prized for its viticulture. Throughout the centuries, Alsace's strategic location and contested sovereignty between France and Germany influenced its wine culture significantly. The region officially became part of France in the 17th century, which introduced French wine laws and regulations to the area. However, the Germanic influence remains evident in the varietals grown and the wine-making styles.

Geography and Climate

Alsace is situated in northeastern France, bordered by the Vosges Mountains to the west and the Rhine River to the east, which separates it from Germany. This geographic positioning creates a rain shadow effect over the region, making Alsace one of the driest areas in France, ideal for vine cultivation. The climate is continental, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, with significant diurnal temperature variation which helps maintain the acidity of the grapes, crucial for the production of balanced wines.

Wine Production

The region is predominantly known for its white wines, with around 90% of the production dedicated to white varietals. Alsace wine is unique in France for its use of varietal labeling. The Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system in Alsace includes several categories, with Alsace AOC for standard wines, Alsace Grand Cru AOC for wines from classified vineyards, Crémant d'Alsace AOC for sparkling wines, and several others indicating specific vineyard sites or wine styles.

Grape Varieties

The primary grape varieties used in Alsace wine production include:

• Riesling: Known for its floral and citrus notes, Riesling from Alsace is typically dry and full-bodied.
• Gewürztraminer: This grape produces highly aromatic wines with notes of lychee, roses, and spices.
• Pinot gris: Offering rich and slightly spicy white wines, Pinot Gris from Alsace can also show a smoky quality.
• Pinot blanc: Produces light and refreshing wines with floral and fruity notes.
• Muscat: Alsace Muscat wines are dry and aromatic, with a distinctive grapey character.

Wine Styles

While Alsace is best known for its dry white wines, the region also produces sweet dessert wines, such as late harvest wines known as Vendange Tardive and Sélection de Grains Nobles, which are made from grapes affected by noble rot. Additionally, Alsace produces Crémant d'Alsace, a sparkling wine made using the traditional method.

Wine Tourism

Alsace is a popular destination for wine tourism, offering a picturesque landscape dotted with medieval villages, vineyards, and castles. The Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d'Alsace) is a famous tourist route that provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the region's wineries and taste the local wines.

Regulations and Classifications

Alsace wines are subject to the French AOC regulations, which dictate the grape varieties that can be used, yield limits, and winemaking practices. The Alsace Grand Cru AOC represents the highest quality tier, reserved for wines from designated vineyards that meet strict criteria.