Alsace AOC

The Alsace AOC is one of the most prestigious appellations in French winegrowing, set in the Alsace region. This area is known for its picturesque landscapes of hills and vineyards stretching along the Rhine valley. The appellation was officially recognised in 1962 and is a benchmark for the fresh, aromatic white wines typical of this region.

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Characteristics of Alsace AOC

Colour

• Whites: Bright straw yellow, at times with greenish highlights.

Aromas

• Fruity: Notes of white-fleshed fruit such as apple and pear, with touches of citrus.
• Floral: Hints of white flowers and wild flowers, which lend elegance.
• Spicy: Hints of sweet spices, such as cinnamon and clove.
• Mineral: Notes that recall the unique terroir of Alsace, with a slight salinity.

Palate

• Fresh and lively: With acidity that makes the wine especially refreshing.
• Full-bodied: Well-structured wines, with good persistence on the palate.
• Balanced: Harmony between sweetness and acidity, which makes the wine versatile in pairings.

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Production Areas

The Alsace AOC stretches along the eastern side of France, in a region that benefits from a continental climate. The best-suited areas include:

• Colmar: An outstanding winegrowing centre, known for its aromatic wines.
• Strasbourg: An area with a historic wine tradition and a variety of terroirs.
• Ribeauvillé: Famous for its historic vineyards and high-quality wines.

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Grape Varieties Used

• Riesling (100%): The grape variety that symbolises Alsace, known for its freshness and aromatic complexity.
• Gewürztraminer (100%): Known for its intense aromas and rich taste.
• Pinot Gris (100%): A full-bodied, aromatic wine, with notes of ripe fruit.
• Muscat (100%): Marked by a floral and fruity bouquet, ideal as an aperitif.

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Typical Winemaking

• Gentle pressing: To preserve the aromas and freshness of the grapes.
• Fermentation in stainless steel: Temperature-controlled to maintain aromatic integrity.
• Ageing: In steel or wooden casks, depending on the style of wine.

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Food Pairings

Starters

• Cheeses: Comté, Munster and soft cheeses.
• Seafood: Oysters, prawns and seafood salads.
• Vegetable Dishes: Fresh salads and grilled vegetables.

First Courses

• Pasta with Pesto: A fresh, aromatic pairing.
• Rice with Mushrooms: To enhance the wine’s earthy notes.

Main Courses

• White Meat: Lemon chicken and roast turkey.
• Baked Fish: Fish fillets with aromatic herbs.

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Why Choose Alsace AOC?

The Alsace AOC is ideal for anyone looking for fresh, aromatic and versatile wines. Perfect for aperitifs, fish dishes and French cooking, these wines represent the essence of Alsace, an area rich in tradition and passion for viticulture.