By James Atkinson
The declaration of grape varietals on the labels of Alsace wines is a clear advantage for the appellation in Australia, according to the Interprofessional Council for Alsatian wines (CIVA).
Australia is currently the 14th biggest export market for Alsace wines, according to CIVA export manager Foulques Aulagnon, who spoke with TheShout at the Millésimes Alsace wine trade fair this week. [continues below]
Masterclasses at Millésimes Alsace
He said there are many reasons to be upbeat about the region's Australian export prospects, starting with the appellation's varietal labelling policy, which is a result of the strong German influence on the region.
He said this will help Australian consumers who may otherwise be baffled by French appellation labelling.
"It's very important especially for the North American and England markets, and Australia as well," he said. [continues below]
L-R: Ubifrance Australia's Berangere Escande with Domaine Albert Mann's Jacky Barthelmé at Millésimes Alsace
Aulagnon said Alsace can also lay claim to some of the most versatile wines in the world due to the region's 13 distinctly different terroirs.
"We have all the aces for the Australian export market because Australian people have a culture of wine, and you are open to international wines," he said.
"We are producing food-friendly wines. You are very international for food – you have Chinese food, Indian food and many other influences."