Gewurztraminer Wine

Gewurztraminer is a fragrant and aromatic white wine with an intriguing mix of vibrant lychee, rose and, often, spice notes. Typically known as Gewurz outside of German-speaking regions, this elegant and distinctive wine is most famously produced in the Alsace region of France, but its captivating character has led to its cultivation in various cooler climates worldwide.

Gewurztraminer is an excellent option if you are looking for an enticingly full-bodied, off-dry to sweet  white wine with an unforgettable aroma, luscious texture, and low acidity.  

What Does Gewurztraminer Taste Like?

Gewurztraminer's most notable characteristic is an intense bouquet with lychee and rose aromas. Additional aroma notes often include passion fruit, florals, and a hint of spice, depending on the style. 

The wine’s unique aroma results from terpenes found within the Gewurztraminer grape, which are responsible for the characteristic floral and spicy notes. When affected by noble rot, the flavors are concentrated and enhanced, resulting in rich dessert wines with a viscous texture and fuller mouthfeel.

On the palate, Gewurztraminer ranges from dry to exceptionally sweet. The full body, combined with its moderate to low acidity, results in a uniquely memorable drinking experience.

The name Gewurztraminer is German for “Spice Traminer,” so although you’ll often see the wine referred to as Gewurz in English-speaking countries, the German-speaking areas where it is most commonly grown always use the full name.

Where Is Gewurztraminer Wine Produced?

Alsace, France, is the most prominent region for Gewurztraminer wine production. This picturesque area is renowned for both dry and sweet styles. The grape thrives in cooler growing areas to produce the best wines but relies on warm, dry summers and a late ripening season, making Alsace the perfect environment for producing outstanding Gewurztraminer wines.

Germany, which produces a smaller quantity of Gewurztraminer, offers a drier style than its Alsatian counterparts. The grape is primarily cultivated in the Baden and Pfalz regions, with growth and production methods that focus on subduing the grape’s natural aromas for a more refined taste.

Italy’s largely German-speaking Südtirol region, the origin of the Gewurztraminer grape, also maintains a strong legacy of Gewurztraminer production. Other notable regions include New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, Australia (particularly Adelaide Hills, Eden Valley, and Tasmania), Canada (British Columbia and Ontario), and the Pacific Northwest of the United States.

The History of Gewurztraminer

Gewurztraminer originated as a mutation of the Savagnin Blanc grape, known as Traminer, in South Tyrol, Italy. Note the difference between Savagnin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, which has no relation; the two are occasionally confused.
The Traminer grape mutated into a new variety with pink-skinned berries called Red Traminer. Later, a further mutation to Red Traminer gave rise to the much more aromatic Gewürztraminer grape. Gewürztraminer spread from its origin in the Tramin region of Italy down the Rhine River to Alsace and Germany, where it acquired its name.

Food Pairings for Gewurztraminer

Given its aromatic nature, Gewurztraminer pairs delightfully with equally flavorful foods. Rich cheeses like Munster and Livarot make for a harmonious match, as do spicy Asian dishes. With its fragrant spices and herbs, Middle Eastern cuisine also complements the wine’s distinctive flavor profile.

How Should Gewurztraminer Wines Be Served?

Gewurztraminer is best served cold to preserve its aromas and taste. Around 38-43°F in a traditional white wine glass is ideal.

Gewurztraminer vs. Riesling: What’s the Difference?

Although both Gewurztraminer and Riesling are aromatic white wines, they have distinct flavor profiles. Riesling is a more acidic wine, and it often has notes of citrus, green apple, and floral undertones. In contrast, Gewurztraminer’s hallmark is its pronounced lychee and rose flavors, lower acidity, and a typically fuller body.

Alternatives to Gewurztraminer Wine

Moscato bears a close resemblance to Gewurztraminer; it is also an aromatic white wine with floral and fruity notes. 

Viognier, another floral and fruity white wine, exhibits a more tropical fruit profile and a hint of creaminess on the palate. 

Muscat, a family of grape varieties, offers a fragrant and sweet alternative often used to produce dessert wines. 

Sauvignon Blanc, with its herbaceous and zesty character, provides a more refreshing and high-acid alternative to Gewurztraminer.