Alsace Wine Label Information

Alsace, although part of France, was historically also ruled by Germany, and its wines retain a Germanic influence. Like Germany, the region produces mostly varietal wines bottled in distinct tall bottles commonly known as flûtes. The region is best known for its aromatic white wines with various levels of sweetness.

Unlike most other French wine regions, Alsace wine labels almost always display the grape variety. However, under appellation rules, if a grape variety is stated, the wine must be made entirely from that variety.

Alsace wines are produced and labeled under the following Appellation d'Origin Protegée (AOP):

• Alsace AOC: The majority of Alsace wines are produced under this umbrella appellation and unlike other French regions, there are no sub-appellations. A label may display a vineyard name (as in Burgundy), but the appellation will still say 'Appellation Alsace Contrôlée'.
• Alsace Grand Cru: These are the highest-quality wines produced by 51 designated vineyards. The labels will display the vineyard as well as the term 'Alsace Grand Cru'. Only the noble Alsace grape varieties are allowed, namely Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.
• Vendange Tardive and Sélection de Grains Nobles: These are exclusive terms for Alsace wines made from noble grapes harvested late in the season. Vendange Tardive means 'late harvest' and the wines are sweeter than normal. Labels showing Sélection de Grains Nobles mean the wine has been made from individually picked berries affected by botrytis and is intensely rich and sweet.
• Edelzwicker: This term normally means an inexpensive blend of Alsatian grapes.
• Crémant d'Alsace AOP: An appellation used for sparkling wines made within the region using the traditional method.

For a typical Alsace wine label, see the illustration below.

You can also take a look at the wine label information for the European Union, France, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, Germany, Italy, USA and Australia or our general information regarding wine labels.