Vendanges Tardives
Since 1984, 'Vendanges Tardives' has been a special classification on wine bottles, highlighting exceptional sweet wines. These wines are crafted from over-ripe grapes, and this label is specific to wines from the Alsace or Alsace Grands Crus regions.
The Alsace region, known for its semi-continental climate, enjoys minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine in the autumn. This weather is perfect for the grapes to ripen longer and encourages the development of 'noble rot'’ a beneficial condition for sweet wines. Grapes like Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, or Gewurztraminer d’Alsace are harvested weeks later than usual when they're at their peak.
For a wine to be classified as Vendanges Tardives, it must meet strict criteria. The grapes must have a high sugar content at harvest – at least 235 grams per liter for Muscat and Riesling and 257 grams per liter for Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer. Additionally, these wines can't be sold until they've aged for 18 months. This recognition for the hard work of wine-makers was officially established by a decree on March 1, 1984.
Minimum Alcohol
Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris: 15.3% potential alcohol
Riesling and Muscat: 14% potential alcohol
Bullet Points!
Ideal Climate: Alsace's semi-continental climate, with low rainfall and high autumn sunshine, is perfect for extended grape ripening and the development of noble rot.
Grape Varieties: Suitable for late-harvested grapes like Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris, or Gewurztraminer d’Alsace.
Harvest Time: Grapes are harvested at their optimal ripeness several weeks later than the standard time.
Sugar Content Requirement: The grapes must have a high sugar level at harvest - minimum 235 grams per liter for Muscat and Riesling, and 257 grams per liter for Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer.
Aging Before Sale: Wines labeled as Vendanges Tardives cannot be sold until they have aged for at least 18 months.
