Due to the great diversity of the regional soil types, Alsace decided to mark certain vineyards for distinction based on their exceptional combination of soil type, microclimate and the noble variety grown there. Between the years of 1983 and 1992 the very best Alsatian vineyards were designated Alsace grand cru, a distinct appellation for which 51 vineyards have qualified so far.
"Grand Cru" is on the labels of wines made from grapes grown in one of the designated 51 Grand Cru vineyards. Their labels mention as well as the name of the vineyard in question, such as "Hengst". Only Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Tokay Pinot Gris and Muscat are eligible for this status.
Vendage Tardive are wines made from grapes picked late with higher sugar levels and more pronounced flavors are bottled under the appellation Alsace Vendange Tardive (VT).
Sélection de Grains Nobles wines are made with grapes that are affected by botrytis cinerea and harvested late in the year, which results in very sweet and concentrated wines. Alsace Grand Cru, Vendange Tardive, and Sélection de Grains Nobles appellation wines can be made only from Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Muscat.
