Crémant d'Alsace

The Crémant d’Alsace AOC designates sparkling wines from Alsace. As early as the late 19th century, several Alsatian wineries were producing sparkling wines using the traditional method. This tradition, which waned during the first half of the 20th century, was maintained until the recognition of the Crémant d’Alsace AOC by the decree of August 24, 1976. This decree provided Alsatian wineries with the new framework necessary to produce high-quality sparkling wine according to standards comparable to those applied by Champagne producers themselves. Today, more than 500 producers are members of the Syndicat des Producteurs de vin Crémant d’Alsace, among whom the Domaine Léon Boesch, the Domaine Julien Meyer, and the Domaine Valentin Zusslin are particularly noteworthy.

Lively and delicate, Crémant d’Alsace is produced through a second fermentation, primarily from Pinot Blanc, but also from Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Riesling, or Chardonnay. These grape varieties are generally harvested at the very beginning of the harvest season, an ideal time when the grapes offer the best balance and finest harmony for winemaking. Thanks to its unique character and impeccable quality, Crémant d'Alsace has become the leading A.O.C. sparkling wine consumed at home in France. It also enjoys considerable success abroad. Crémant d’Alsace owes its finesse and originality to the inimitable character of each of the Alsatian grape varieties used in its production and to the exceptional conditions enjoyed by its vineyards: a dry, sunny climate, hillsides facing the rising sun, and unique geological features.
 
Most Crémant d'Alsace "blanc de blancs" wines are made from Pinot Blanc, which gives them delicacy and suppleness; Riesling offers Crémant with lively, fruity notes, full of elegance and nobility; Pinot Gris brings richness and structure to Crémant; Chardonnay lends Crémant character and lightness; finally, Pinot Noir is the only grape variety used to produce Crémant d'Alsace rosé, and more rarely, "blancs de noirs," which are full of charm and finesse.