Edelzwicker
Definition - What does Edelzwicker mean?
Edelzwicker is a wine from the region of Alsace, France. dating back to 1644, the traditional wine was made with grapes that were perceived as lesser quality; Pinot Blanc, Sylvaner, Auxerrois and Chasselas.
Today, it is still made with the same varieties along with the local noble grapes, but does not fall under the quality AOC system. This is not indicative of a lesser quality wine, but a wine which allows producers some creativity.
WineFrog explains Edelzwicker
Unlike its counterpart Gentil, Edelzwicker wine is made from local grapes which are harvested and fermented together. However, as there are no specific regulations for Edelzwicker, the grapes can also be vinified separately and then blended.
As a historic drink, it was a wine made from different varieties which were grown together in a single parcel of vineyard. Zwicker is directly translated as "blend," Edel means "noble." The prefix means that there are noble varieties also used in the blend such as; Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.
Since there are no strict regulations, there is no specific style of Edelzwicker. This depends on the producer. However, it can range from a light to medium-bodied white, wine which may also range from dry to slightly sweet.
