Question Time: What is the Alsace Appellation d‘Origine Contrôlée (A.O.C.)?

 

The Origins of the Alsace Wine Appellation

In 1935, France established a system called Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (A.O.C.) to define and protect the geographical origins and quality standards for wines from specific regions. However, the process of getting Alsace wines certified under this system was interrupted when the Alsace region was annexed by Germany during World War II. Alsace, which borders Germany in the Northeast of France, has been a region historically overtaken by the two political entities. This also means that while today although Alsace is fully a part of France, the region has been granted certain legal exemptions from other regions in France and there is a noticeable Germanic influence which remains in terms of culture, cuisine, and architecture.

Establishing the Alsace AOC

After the end of World War II in 1945, the Association des Viticulteurs d‘Alsace (Association of Alsace Winemakers) worked to establish an appellation specifically for wines from the Alsace region. It took until 1962 for the Alsace A.O.C. to be legally recognized by official decree.

What Makes an Alsace AOC Wine?

For a wine to be labeled as Alsace A.O.C., it must be made from grapes grown within precisely defined historical boundaries in the Alsace region. These wines can be made from a single grape variety, in which case the variety is listed on the label, or from a blend of grapes, which are commonly referred to as "Edelzwicker." Additionally, Alsace A.O.C. wines must be bottled in a distinctive tall, slender bottle called "Flute d'Alsace" ("Flute of Alsace") and bottled within the Alsace region itself. This has been a requirement since 1972.

Ensuring Quality and Authenticity

The Alsace A.O.C. is governed by strict quality control measures overseen by an independent organization under the Institut National de l'Origine et de la Qualité (National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO)." Winemakers must follow specific rules regarding vineyard practices, grape varieties, yields, harvesting, and production methods, all defined in a book of specifications. Their wines undergo sensory analysis and production inspections to ensure they meet all requirements for the AOC Alsace designation.