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Alsace is a wine region of France known for its white wines. This article also covers the neighboring region of Lorraine.
edit Tasting
edit Facts and figures
- Production area: 14,600 hectares (36,077 acres)
- Annual production (average): 120 million liters
- Main varietals: Sylvaner, Klevner (Pinot Blanc), Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir.
edit History
Winegrowing in Alsace started after the Roman conquest. By the 16th century, Alsace wines enjoyed a high reputation. After the Franco-German war of 1870, quality was sacrificed for quantity, but the end of First World War in 1918 saw a reorientation towards quality wines made from "noble" varietals.
edit Geography
Most vineyards are oriented South by Southeast.
Alsace soils offer a mix of granite, limestone, marl, shale, clay and sandstone.
edit Climate
Alsace has a semi-continental climate favored by an exceptional geography. Protected from oceanic influence by the Vosges mountains, Alsace vineyards enjoy a perfect winegrowing climate. Precipitations are among the lowest in France.
edit Viticulture
edit See also
