Gewürztraminer

The Gewürztraminer is a grape variety with white berries known for its extraordinary aromatic intensity and its unique profile. Native toAlto Adige, owes its name to the locality of Termeno (Tramin), but today it is grown all over the world. This grape variety produces intense, complex wines of great personality, able to charm with their floral, spicy and fruity aromas.

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Origin and History of Gewürztraminer

The name "Gewürztraminer" comes from the German word gewürz, which means "spicy," and Traminer, the reference to the village of Termeno. Although its exact origins are debated, Gewürztraminer is thought to have its roots in central Europe, with a strong connection to theAlto Adige, where the grape variety found its ideal home.Today Gewürztraminer is also grown in other European regions, such asAlsace and the Germany, and in the New World, such as New Zealand, Australia e United States.

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Ampelographic Characteristics

• Leaf: Medium, three-lobed or entire.
• Bunch: Small, compact and cylindrical.
• Berry: Medium, with thick skin of a coppery pink colour.
• Resistance: Susceptible to fungal diseases and drought, it requires careful attention.

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Growing Areas

Italy

• Alto Adige: The ideal habitat, where Gewürztraminer expresses aromatic intensity and freshness.
• Trentino and Friuli Venezia Giulia: They produce elegant, balanced versions.

France

• Alsace: Production of aromatic, intense wines, often with residual sugar.

Germany and Austria

• Used for dry and sweet wines, with marked freshness.

New World

• United States, Australia and New Zealand: An exuberant aromatic profile, with notes of tropical fruit.

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Wine Styles from Gewürztraminer

1. Dry Wines

• Aromatic and complex, with floral and spicy notes.
• Moderate freshness and a structured body.

2. Medium-Dry and Sweet Wines

• Rich and opulent, with sweetness well balanced by acidity.
• Often used for desserts or blue cheeses.

3. Passito and Late Harvest Wines

• Aromatic concentration and intensity, ideal for special occasions.

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Sensory Profile of Gewürztraminer

Colour

• Deep golden yellow, with coppery highlights.

Aromas

• Tropical fruit: Lychee, mango, pineapple.
• Sweet spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger.
• Flowers: Rose petals, orange blossom.
• Secondary notes: Honey, dried fruit and nuts, herbs.

Palate

• Structured and enveloping, with a slight sensation of warmth given by the alcohol.
• Persistent aromas, with a balance between sweetness and acidity.
• Finish long and aromatic, with spicy notes.

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Winemaking Techniques

• Fermentation in stainless steel: To preserve freshness and primary aromas.
• Ageing in wood: Used for more complex, structured versions.
• Late harvest and drying: For intense, aromatic sweet wines.

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Food Pairings

Gewürztraminer is a versatile wine that pairs perfectly with spicy, sweet and full-flavoured dishes.

Dry Wines

• Asian cuisine: Curry, coconut and spicy dishes.
• Fresh cheeses: Goat's cheeses, robiola.
• Seafood: Crustaceans and molluscs.

Off-dry and Sweet Wines

• Foie gras: A classic, refined pairing.
• Blue cheeses: Gorgonzola, Roquefort.
• Desserts: Dry biscuits and pastries, fruit tarts.

Passito Wines and Late Harvest

• Spoon desserts: Crème brûlée, bavarois.
• White chocolate and dried fruit and nuts.

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Why Choose a Gewürztraminer Wine?

The Gewürztraminer is the perfect wine for anyone seeking an intense and unique sensory experience. With its unmistakable aromatic profile and its versatility, it is ideal alongside spicy dishes and desserts, or simply enjoyed on its own on special occasions.