What grape varieties are used in Alsace wines?

Visit Alsace wines are produced from 7 main grape varieties. Alsace produces mostly white wines, but also a few reds; in this article, we'll look at the reds and whites. different grape varieties for Alsace red and white wines.

 

Alsace white wine grape varieties ?

• Gewurztraminer : A member of the Traminer family, its rosé grapes can give it the appellation of aromatic pink Savagnin. Easily recognized on the palate, it can be vinified as a dry or sweet white wine. Harvested late or over-ripe, it can even be found in a sweeter, even syrupy version. It boasts floral, lychee, honey and spice notes. With its powerful aroma and intense golden hue, it promises a richly flavored tasting experience, whether served as an aperitif or with exotic dishes or full-bodied cheeses. Consult our Gewurztraminer Guide and buy at the best price Great Gewurztraminer wines.
• Riesling : 23 % of Alsace vineyards are devoted to Riesling. A dry wine, it can also be found in a sweet version following over-ripening. Highly aromatic, it can be kept for several years. Its elegance lies in its balance and finesse. Very fruity, it reveals floral and fruity notes with a hint of citrus. It goes well with fish, white meats and fresh cheeses.
• Pinot Blanc: Beneath its acidity lie floral and fruity notes, its aromas revealing hints of apple and peach. Pale yellow in color, its freshness makes it a wine described as thirst-quenching. Dry or sweet, the suppleness of wines from this grape variety can be enjoyed on all kinds of occasions.
• Pinot Gris: With its grand cru appellation, it can be found both dry and sweet when it comes from late harvest. Subtle, it is renowned for offering perfect balance thanks to its notes of yellow fruit, honey and undergrowth. It brings freshness without masking a certain roundness on the palate. The other senses are enhanced by its fruity aroma and golden-yellow color. A perfect match for white meats, foie gras and sweet and savory dishes.
• Sylvaner : Dry wines renowned for their lightness, wines made from this grape variety are renowned for their freshness, resulting from citrus and floral notes. With their light color, they sublimate aperitifs, fish dishes and seafood platters.
• Muscat : In terms of production, this is the youngest of Alsace's 7 grape varieties, and is the result of a blend of two muscats. Different from traditional muscats, it is fresh and dry, and is best drunk young. Its light yellow color reveals floral notes that are ideal as an aperitif.

 

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Red grape variety from Alsace ?

• Pinot Noir : Made from red grapes with white flesh, the production of this grape variety benefits from a high level of quality. AOC Alsace and accounts for around 10 % of Alsace's wine-growing area. Although classified as a red wine, it is very often found in rosé, the variation being due to the difference in maceration. This particularity gives this variety a color ranging from light pink to dark red. When rosé, Pinot Noir is light, with hints of red fruit, notably blackcurrant and raspberry, and is best enjoyed young. When red, it remains fresh but reveals a woody aftertaste on the palate, and can be kept for 2 to 10 years. In terms of pairing, the two varieties are a perfect match for meats and cheeses.

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