What must always be included on the label of an Alsace Grand Cru wine?

The inclusion of the vineyard name on the label of an Alsace Grand Cru wine is a requirement that reflects the strict regulations governing this classification. Alsace Grand Cru wines are produced from grapes grown in specific, designated vineyards known for their unique terroir, which contributes to the wine's distinct character. By mandating the vineyard's name on the label, the appellation helps consumers easily identify the source of the wine, ensuring that they can associate the quality and style of the wine with its specific geographic origin.

This focus on the vineyard name serves both as a guarantee of quality and as an educational tool, helping wine buyers understand the importance of local terroir in Alsace's wine production. The other options may contribute to specific labeling practices but are not strict legal requirements for all Alsace Grand Cru wines. Thus, while the name of the estate, winemaker’s name, and vintage year might often appear on various wine labels, they are not universally mandated for Alsace Grand Cru wines, making the vineyard name the essential piece of information that must always be included.