Alsace Flashcards
What is the climate of Alsace?
Cool to moderate continental
What natural factors influence Alsace?
Vosgnes mountains prevent rain-baring Westerly winds (rainshadow)
What is a natural factor that causes issues for Alsace?
Drought can be an issue in dry years
The rainshadow ensures sunny summers and dry autumns
Where are the best vineyards located in Alsace?
Steep E/SE facing slopes
The Northly areas have more protection from Vosgnes mountains
What is unique about Alsace’s soil?
Its diversity
this complexity is a key factor to the variety of styles
How are vineyards on the steep slopes of Alsace managed?
(3)
low trained to benefit from radiated heat
rows oriented to maximise exposure to sunlight
hand harvested
How are vineyards on the flats of Alsace managed?
high trained - mitigates frost risk
machine harvested
organic and biodynamic viticulture practices common
What are the four ‘noble’ varieties of Alsace?
Riesling
Gewurtztraminer
Pinot Gris
Muscat
What does Vendanges Tardives (VT) mean on a bottle of Alsace wine?
Late harvest
- has to be one of the four noble varieites*
- require a minimum sugar ripeness (variety dependent)*
- noble rot may or may not be present*
What does Selection de Grains Nobles (SGN) mean?
Must be made from one of the four noble varieties
typically show noble rot
require higher sugar levels than VT wines
rare - not produced every year
What is the other grape variety of Alsace?
Pinot Blanc
Describe a Riesling from Alsace
medium to full bodied
dry with high acidity
medium alcohol
citrus, stone fruit, and pronounced stony/steely character.
Describe a Gewurtztraminer from Alsace
pungent aromatic spicy nose
lychees, roses, sweet baking spices
golden colour
full bodied, rich, oily texture
low to med acidity
high alc
Describe a Pinot Gris from Alsace
rich, full bodied, textured
high alcohol
med to high acidity
fresh and dried fruits, honeyed character
Describe a Muscat from Alsace
intensely aromatic - orange blossom, rose, grape
light - med body
low to med acidity
