The Different Types of Wine in Alsace

For me describing the different types of wine in Alsace objectively is one of the hardest things to do...

Because there are so many different types of soil...

And micro climates in Alsace...

Each tiny little vineyard can produce distinctly different flavors in each type of grape...

If you really want to get to know the wines in Alsace, wine tastings are the best way to go.

It's the perfect opportunity...

To taste a range of Riesling from different vineyards for example, so that you can learn about how one type of soil and climate can create a distinct flavor...

And remember that just because you tried a glass of Riesling or Pinot Gris once does not mean that all Riesling or Pinot Gris will be the same...

So get out there and taste the same wine from different vineyards or...

From different wine makers or...

From different years.

The truth is...you're going to have to drink a lot of wine if you want to get to know Alsatian wine...

Horrible, isn't it... ;)

About the Wine

Alsace is famous for its white wine...

And although there are only 10 types of "approved" white wine produced in Alsace, there is such a variety of flavors.

I can safely say that where white wine is concerned, there is a wine to suit everyone's preferences in Alsace.

Alsace only produces one type of red wine, but it's one of the best ones...

And it's a finicky red wine that needs special growing conditions, so you won't find it everywhere...

And if that wasn't enough...

Alsace also produces Crémant d'Alsace or Alsatian sparkling wine...

They use the same method as in Champagne...

But switch it up with different grape varieties and blends like Pinot Blanc, Auxerrois, Riesling, and Pinot Gris to name a few possibilities...

And although Alsace is known for its dry white wines...

They also produce some incredible Vendange Tardive or Late Harvest wines...

Which require a lot of attention to detail...

And even more attention to detail goes into the making of the Selection de Grains Noble wines or Noble Rot wines...

Which produce some wonderfully complex wines that can be cellared for as long as twenty years or more...

And don't forget all the rules and restrictions wine makers are required to keep track of in Alsace...

These rules help to maintain the quality of wine in Alsace and all of France.

More Information about Alsace Wine

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