Alsace Part 3: Classification

Vin d'Alsace is classified entirely into three AOC's (Appellation d'Origine Controllee) or "controlled designations of origine". 78% of Alsatian production is classified as white, red, or rose still wine; 18% is classified as Cremant d'Alsace or half-sparkling wine; and 4% is Grand Cru vineyard still wine.

The level below AOC in the French hierarchy, VDQS, was eliminated in the past decade in an effort simplify the system. The other classification in France is Vin d'Pays but doesn't apply to Alsace so if a wine is sourced in the Alsace but is not claimed as Alsatian, therefore AOC, it would have to be considered vin d'table or simple table wine that could in fact be sourced anywhere in France. Local restaurant wines, experimental blends, or declassified wines would be so labelled.

90% of the wine produced in Alsace is light, dry white wine which may generally be characterized as aromatic, floral, and spicy with pure varietal flavors because oak is not used. Pinot Noir, the only red grape allowed in Alsace, is not prized at all and much of it goes into rose, both still wine and cremant.

America is the fifth largest export market for Alsatian wines with the other top markets all being within northern Europe. Only 25% of Alsatian wines are exported at all.

In the store presently we are offering Kuentz-Bas Sylvaner Blend and Calixte Cremant Rose. If you want to experience the quality of Alsace try them now with a 10% discount by citing this article.