Unlike other regions in France like Burgundy or Châteauneuf du Pape where wines are named after the appellation, Alsace wines are usually named after the grape variety. These wines are easily recognized by their distinct long-necked bottles called Flûtes d’Alsace. Alsatian wines are known across Europe for their crisp, fruity, and charming characteristics. With seven unique grape varieties – Muscat d’Alsace, Sylvaner, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Noir – there’s a wide range of flavors from dry and light to rich and nuanced.
Here’s a quick guide to the most famous grapes:
Muscat d’Alsace:
Dry, velvety, and flower-scented, Muscat d’Alsace wines shouldn’t be confused with the sweeter Muscats from southern France. They make excellent aperitifs and pair wonderfully with asparagus.
Sylvaner:
Fresh and light, with a subtle floral taste, Sylvaner wines are refreshing and perfect with seafood, salads, and charcuterie. They are popular in Europe.
Riesling:
Riesling is considered one of the best white grapes globally, especially in Alsace. It produces dry, elegant wines with mineral and fruity notes. These wines are superb with seafood, particularly sushi and other Asian dishes. A strong Riesling, such as a Grand Cru, pairs excellently with white meats and poultry, and is great with Alsatian sauerkraut.
Pinot Gris:
This grape produces dry, rich wines with a deep, smoky aroma and a hint of sweetness. Ideal for foie gras and strong-tasting fish like smoked salmon, it’s also a great match for duck, smoked ham, game, white meat, and variety meats.
Gewurztraminer:
This grape produces full-bodied, spicy, and floral-scented wines that age well. Gewurztraminer’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with foie gras and spicy dishes like Thai food. It complements game, white meats, strong cheeses, and desserts, offering a lovely note of elderflower that makes it feel like summer in a glass.
Pinot Noir:
The only red grape in Alsace, Pinot Noir is used for both rosé and light red wines. It produces fresh, delicate wines with a hint of cherry, perfect for pairing with red meat, game, and charcuterie.
This variety shows why Alsatian wines are so cherished and diverse, offering something for every palate. Cheers!
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