The Dictionary of Alsace Wines | Claude Muller

Unpublished work, The Dictionary of Alsace Wines provides access to a multitude of diverse knowledge in a clear, practical, and concise manner. It covers ampelography - the science of grape varieties, of course - as well as history, geography, vintages, art, literature, and daily life. A true bible of a previously fragmented and little-known knowledge, this dictionary is an essential reference for anyone wishing to understand the Alsatian vineyard.

In 1648, Alsace was part of the Holy Roman Empire and the Alsatian vineyard had all the characteristics of a Germanic entity, including its vocabulary. After the Peace of Westphalia treaties in 1648, Alsace became French; yet it was still annexed by Germany from 1870 to 1918, and again from 1940 to 1945. Is it for this reason that ultimately this unique vineyard, with its history, is so poorly known, by both the French and the Alsatians themselves?

This questioning is not without interest when it comes to understanding where we come from to chart the path we are on, the essence of life. Because all those who follow oenological news know well that the Alsatian vineyard has, in just thirty years, from 1970 to 2000, regained its former splendor and medieval glory after a long descent into hell.

Claude Muller is a professor at the University of Strasbourg and director of the Institute of Alsatian History. His literary work, with around forty works, addresses many aspects of his native region, particularly its vineyard.