Today we want to talk about all things Gewurztraminer, a grape variety that (unless you’re a die hard wine lover) might not have encountered often, if at all. Gewurztraminer is fantastic with its bold aromas, unique flavours, offers a delightful departure from the usual suspects like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
The Gewurztraminer grape has quite a lineage. Its origins trace all the way back to the Tramin region all the way in South Tyrol, now a part of Italy, where it’s believed to have evolved from a grape called Traminer. The name “Gewurztraminer” itself is combined with “Gewurz” meaning spice in German and “Traminer”. So, we’re essentially talking about “spicy Traminer” which is pretty spot on.
Gewurztraminer Grape Variety Characteristics
When you pop open a bottle of Gewurztraminer, and the very first thing that hits you is the aroma. This wine does not shy away from making a good first impression. Think characteristics like lychee, rose petals, and a bouquet of exotic spices. It’s like walking into a fragrant garden on a warm summer’s day. Some people pick up hints of gingerbread, cinnamon, and even a touch of smokiness.
When you take a sip, the flavours can be just as bold. You’ll often be greeted with a mix of lychee, apricot, peach, and a hint of citrus. Gewurztraminer tends to have a bit more body and can be higher in alcohol compared to other white wines, which adds to its rich and somewhat oily texture. Despite its sweetness, good Gewurztraminer has enough acidity to keep it both balanced and refreshing.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Gewurztraminer is its range on the sweetness spectrum as a whole. You can find it in dry, dry-off and sweet styles. The dry versions are often aromatic and spicy but keep a clean finish, making them versatile for pairing with different foods. The off dry and sweeter versions are often lusciously fragrant and make for fantastic dessert wines or even aperitifs.
Gewurztraminer Grape Variety Food Pairings
If we dive further into this wine, it’s also a versatile wine when it comes to food pairings at the dinner table. Its bold flavours and slight sweetness make it a natural match for spicy cuisines. Think Thai, Indian or even Mexican dishes. The sweetness helps to cool the heat, while the complex flavours compliment the spices in the food. It’s also great with rich, fatty foods like foie gras or creamy cheeses. If you’ve never tried it with Munster cheese, you’re in for a huge treat. Gewurztraminer’s natural fruitiness and sweetness make it a great companion for an array of fruity desserts, such as apple pie, peach cobbler, or apricot tarts.
Gewurztraminer Grape Variety Wine
Gewurztraminer wine really does stand out in the crowd with its unique style and vibrant personality. It might not be for everyone, but for those who appreciate its charms, it offers a wine experience that’s hard to match. So the next time you’re browsing the online aisles of The Little Fine Wine Company take a look at our Gewurztraminer collection and choose from some huge customers favourites like our Trimbach Gewurztraminer Half Bottle.