Grape Guide
Madeleine × Angevine 7672
WhiteThis early-ripening German crossing represents one of viticulture's more successful northern climate varieties, despite initial confusion with its table grape parent. A freely pollinated seedling that appeared before 1930, possibly at Germany's Alzey research station, this white wine grape has found particular success in England's emerging wine industry, where its reliability and early maturation make it well-suited to marginal climates.
Key characteristics
- Early ripening variety ideal for cool climates
- Reliable yields with consistent production
- Low natural acidity profile
- Hardy vine suitable for challenging conditions
- Distinctive muscat-like aromatics
Typical flavors
Major regions
England (primary) · Germany (Rheinhessen) · Washington State · Denmark · Sweden
Madeleine × Angevine 7672, originally labelled Sämling 7672, is a testament to early 20th-century German viticulture innovation. This white wine grape variety emerged as a freely pollinated seedling, most likely in Germany. The variety demonstrates the successful adaptation of wine grape cultivation to regions previously considered too marginal for quality wine production.
Despite its relatively modest profile compared to international varieties, Alzey 7672 has carved out a meaningful niche in cool-climate viticulture. Its combination of early ripening, dependable yields, and distinctive aromatic profile has made it particularly valuable in emerging wine regions where traditional varieties struggle to achieve full maturity. The grape's ability to produce wines with sufficient alcohol levels while maintaining varietal character has earned it respect among viticulturists working in challenging climatic conditions.
Alzey 7672 originated as an open-pollinated seedling of Madeleine Angevine, appearing sometime before 1930, likely at the renowned Alzey research institute in Germany's Rheinhessen region. The variety's complex parentage remains partially mysterious, as its second parent has never been definitively identified, though self-pollination is impossible given Madeleine Angevine's female-only flower structure. This breeding background places it within the broader context of German viticulture's systematic approach to developing climate-adapted varieties during the early-to-mid 20th century. The variety was introduced to England in 1957, where it became known colloquially as "Mad Angie," reflecting both its complex nomenclature and the affectionate regard of English winegrowers.
The variety's primary viticultural strength lies in its early ripening capability, typically achieving maturity several weeks before many traditional varieties in similar conditions. This characteristic proves invaluable in northern climates where late-season weather can be unpredictable. Alzey 7672 demonstrates reliable yields across varying seasonal conditions, though its disease resistance is only moderate. The variety's natural tendency toward lower acidity levels, while sometimes requiring management in warmer regions, proves advantageous in cool climates where maintaining adequate sugar levels while preserving freshness can be challenging.
Wines produced from Alzey 7672 typically exhibit a light to medium body with distinctive floral and fruity aromatics reminiscent of Muscat varieties. The grape's low natural acidity contributes to wines with approachable, immediately appealing profiles that require minimal aging to develop their character. Winemakers often emphasize the variety's fresh, grapey qualities through careful temperature control during fermentation and early bottling. The resulting wines display elderflower and honeysuckle notes alongside crisp apple and citrus flavors, creating an accessible style that appeals to both novice and experienced wine drinkers.
Where it grows
England
Represents the variety's most significant modern stronghold, with a few dozen hectares planted. English producers have successfully exploited the grape's early ripening to create fresh, aromatic wines that showcase the variety's distinctive character while benefiting from England's increasingly favorable growing conditions.
Germany (Rheinhessen)
The variety's birthplace continues to maintain small plantings, primarily for experimental and historical preservation purposes, contributing to ongoing research into cool-climate viticulture.
Washington State
Small plantings grown under this name are found mainly in the cool, maritime Puget Sound area west of the Cascades.