Gewürztraminer, a white wine grape variety with a name as captivating as its flavors, takes center stage in the world of wines.
In this page, we unravel the winemaking process, trace the historical roots of Gewürztraminer, discover premier regions producing this varietal, and explore ideal food pairings.
Join us on a journey to understand the essence of Gewürztraminer and explore three popular labels that showcase the diversity and charm of this captivating white wine.
What is Gewürztraminer?
Gewürztraminer is a type of grape used for white wines, and it thrives in cooler climates. In everyday conversation, people might call it Gewürz, but this term isn’t used in German because “Gewürz” means “herb” or “spice.” In English and French, it’s often written as Gewurztraminer.
This grape has pink to red skin, classifying it as a “white wine grape,” even though it’s not the typical blue or black-skinned grape associated with red wines. Gewürztraminer grapes are naturally high in sugar, resulting in off-dry white wines with a vibrant aroma reminiscent of lychees.
Dry Gewürztraminers may also carry scents of roses, passion fruit, and flowers. Sometimes, you might notice a bit of fizziness (fine bubbles) in the glass.
How is Gewürztraminer Made?
The production of Gewürztraminer involves several key steps, from harvesting to aging. The grapes are carefully harvested to ensure optimal ripeness, followed by a gentle pressing to extract the juice.
Fermentation, whether in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, plays a crucial role in shaping the wine’s flavor profile. Some winemakers choose to allow malolactic fermentation, contributing to a softer texture. Blending may occur to achieve a harmonious final product.
History of Gewürztraminer
Gewürztraminer is believed to be a clone of the ancient Traminer, also known as Savagnin.
Originating from the town of Tramin in northeast Italy’s Tryol commune, where it still thrives, it stands out as the most aromatic white wine globally. A mutation in its history endowed the berries with pink skin, intensified aromas, and exotic fruit notes. The term “Gewurz,” meaning spicy, was aptly added to capture these unique and ethereal qualities.
Its journey took it along the Rhine River, traversing Austria, Germany, and eventually Alsace in France. The addition of “Gewurz” to its name occurred in Alsace in 1870, establishing the region as its spiritual home, where Gewürztraminer has retained its prominence.
World’s Best Gewürztraminer Regions
- Alsace, France: Alsace remains the traditional heartland of Gewürztraminer, producing wines known for their floral and lychee notes. The region’s terroir, with its mix of clay and limestone soils, contributes to the grape’s optimal expression.
- Germany: In Germany, Gewürztraminer thrives in regions like Pfalz and Baden. German Gewürztraminers often showcase a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- New Zealand: The cool climate regions of New Zealand, such as Marlborough and Nelson, have emerged as noteworthy producers of Gewürztraminer. These wines boast vibrant fruit flavors and aromatic profiles.
- Italy: In Italy, Gewürztraminer finds a home in the Alpine regions of Trentino-Alto Adige. Italian Gewürztraminers are characterized by their complexity and structure.
Best Foods to Pair with Gewürztraminer
- Spicy Cuisine: Gewürztraminer’s natural spiciness makes it an excellent companion for spicy dishes, such as Thai, Indian, or Mexican cuisine.
- Rich Cheeses: Creamy and rich cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert, complement the texture and flavors of Gewürztraminer.
- Asian Cuisine: Whether it’s sushi, Chinese, or Vietnamese dishes, Gewürztraminer’s aromatic and slightly sweet profile harmonizes with a variety of Asian flavors.
- Pork Dishes: Gewürztraminer pairs well with pork-based dishes, especially those featuring a hint of sweetness, like glazed pork or sweet and sour preparations.
Three Popular Gewürztraminer Labels
- Trimbach Gewürztraminer (Alsace, France): Trimbach is a renowned Alsace producer, and their Gewürztraminer is celebrated for its purity of fruit and vibrant acidity.
- Dr. Loosen Gewürztraminer (Mosel, Germany): Dr. Loosen’s German Gewürztraminer offers a delightful combination of floral aromas, tropical fruit notes, and a refreshing finish.
- Cloudy Bay Gewürztraminer (Marlborough, New Zealand): Cloudy Bay’s New Zealand Gewürztraminer showcases the region’s signature crisp acidity, along with exotic fruit flavors and floral undertones.
Gewürztraminer – A Rich History
Gewürztraminer stands as a captivating white wine variety with a rich history and diverse expressions. From its aromatic allure to its food-friendly nature, Gewürztraminer continues to enchant wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether enjoyed with spicy dishes or paired with creamy cheeses, Gewürztraminer’s distinct charm makes it a perennial favorite in the world of white wines.
