Gewurztraminer
The most perfumed white wine grape, with lychee, rose and spice. It thrives in cool regions like Michigan, the Finger Lakes, Anderson Valley and Washington.
Gewürztraminer (geh-VURTZ-trah-mee-ner) is the most aromatic white grape most wine drinkers will ever meet. Gewürz means spice in German, and its pink-skinned grapes make wines that smell of lychee, rose petals and exotic spice. Its classic home is Alsace, and in the U.S. it thrives in cool regions with long, slow growing seasons.
What It Tastes Like
Lychee is the giveaway, often with rose petal, ginger, grapefruit, honey and baking spice. Gewürztraminer has a rich, almost oily texture and lower acidity than Riesling, so it can feel full-bodied even when dry. Off-dry versions are a classic match for spicy Asian food.
Where It Grows
Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula, New York's Finger Lakes, Washington's Columbia Valley, Oregon, California's Anderson Valley and Monterey County, and Idaho all make excellent Gewürztraminer. Its cold-hardy grandchild Traminette carries its perfume into colder and more humid regions.
What to Look For
- Dry Gewürztraminer, in the Alsace style.
- Off-dry Gewürztraminer, for spicy food.
- Late-harvest and ice wine, rich and exotic.
Where to Find Gewurztraminer
Wine regions on American Winery Guide where Gewurztraminer is grown or poured: