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3 ANECDOTES ABOUT ALSACE WINES

Discovering the Secrets of Alsace Wines

The Mystery Behind Alsace Wines

But do you know the wines from this region and the mystery that surrounds them? For instance, do you know why the stems of Alsatian wine glasses are green? Here are three anecdotes you might not know about Alsace wines.

The Oldest Wine in the World Resides in Strasbourg!

If you have the chance to visit Strasbourg, stop by the Historical Wine Cellar of the Civil Hospices of Strasbourg. It is here that the oldest wine in the world is hidden. This Alsatian white wine, made in 1472, is now 546 years old! Since its discovery, this wine has been tasted three times: in 1576, during the signing of the mutual assistance agreement between Strasbourg and Zurich, in 1718, for the laying of the first stone of the civil hospital, and in 1944, to celebrate the liberation of Strasbourg. Preserved all these years in a 450-liter barrel, the wine remains fit for tasting. Oenologists have indeed confirmed that it still possesses a lively acidity and an expressive nose. Incredible, isn't it? Especially since in 2015, the wine was transferred to a brand-new barrel. It could then last for another 250 years...

Why Are Alsatian Wine Glass Stems Green?

With their long stems and green bases, Alsatian wine glasses are easily recognizable. But why exactly are their stems green? Legend has it that these glasses appeared in the 19th century. At that time, vintners prioritized quantity over quality, resulting in wines with greenish hues, indicating the grapes' lack of maturity. To mask this "flaw," winemakers served their wine in green-stemmed glasses, claiming that the slightly greenish tint came from the glass, not the wine! Today, Alsatian glasses are rare because they are not ideal for tasting. The goblet (the part of the glass where the wine is poured) is so small that it is difficult to swirl the wine without spilling a drop! But if you absolutely want to acquire a traditional Alsatian glass, rest assured, it is possible. You can find this type of glass in the region's souvenir shops or directly online.

In Alsace, They Drink Hot White Wine!

Spices, cinnamon, red wine, lemon... Just like grog, mulled wine has become one of the French's favorite winter beverages. But have you ever tried hot white wine? An aberration, you say? Yet, it is common in Alsace. Why? Red wine represents only 3% of Alsace vineyard productions. For La Tribu des Gourmets, whose members define themselves as "promoters of hot white wine from Alsace," it is natural to favor white wine. "Alsace is a land of white wines. And, with Strasbourg as the 'Christmas capital,' it is logical that mulled wine has many connections with this part of France!" says Didier Bonnet, president of La Tribu des Gourmets. The Alsatian mulled wine recipe combines typical Alsace grape varieties such as Sylvaner, Riesling, or Pinot Blanc. "The citrus notes of the white wine are highlighted by the fresh fruits (orange, lemon) that we add to the recipe," explains Didier Bonnet.