Gewürztraminer is one of the most distinctive and polarizing white grapes, producing intensely aromatic wines that you can smell from across the room. The name means "spicy Traminer," referring to the Italian village of Tramin where it may have originated.
The grape produces deeply coloured wines (often golden) with low acidity and high alcohol, packed with exotic aromas of lychee, rose, ginger, and Turkish delight. It's a love-it-or-hate-it variety – many find it too perfumed and oily, while others adore its exotic opulence.
Alsace is Gewürztraminer's greatest home, producing both dry and sweet versions, including the legendary Vendange Tardive and Sélection de Grains Nobles dessert wines. The grape also thrives in Germany, Northern Italy, and cooler New World regions.
Typical colour: Deep gold to light copper
Naturally produces darker-coloured juice due to pink skin pigments. Distinctive golden-copper tones.
Gewürztraminer often exhibits higher alcohol levels due to rapid ripening. Styles can vary, with some producers aiming for lower alcohol wines while maintaining varietal character.
Gewürztraminer immediately captivates with intensely aromatic notes of ripe lychee and fragrant rose petals, defining its uniquely floral and fruity character. Beyond these primary aromas, hints of ginger, orange blossom, and even a touch of honey emerge, adding complexity and a subtle spice. As the wine ages, nuanced secondary and tertiary notes of warm peach and delicate tropical fruits can develop, creating a richly layered and captivating sensory experience.
Gewürztraminer offers a full-bodied and often slightly viscous palate, delivering a unique experience of ripe lychee, rose petals, and exotic spice. While typically off-dry to sweetly flavored, it maintains a balancing acidity that prevents it from feeling heavy, and notably lacks noticeable tannins. The overall impression is one of aromatic intensity and a lingering, spicy finish.
Adds acidity and structure to balance Gewürztraminer's richness and aromatics.
Provides acidity, freshness, and can temper Gewürztraminer's intensity, creating a more balanced wine.
Offers a neutral base to highlight Gewürztraminer's aromatics while adding some body.
Can contribute acidity and freshness, though less commonly used than Pinot Gris or Riesling.
Appellations and wine regions where Gewürztraminer is permitted or required:
A classic region for Gewürztraminer, often producing aromatic, full-bodied wines.
Known for high-quality Gewürztraminer wines.
Used for production of Marc d'Alsace.
Used for production of Marc de Lorraine.
These grapes are commonly confused with Gewürztraminer in blind tasting. Here's how to tell them apart:
Why confused: Both Germanic/Alsatian aromatic varieties.
Why confused: Alsace Pinot Gris can be rich and aromatic.
Why confused: Both aromatic, full-bodied, low-acid whites.
Why confused: Both intensely aromatic.
Why confused: Both floral, aromatic whites. Both highly aromatic whites.
Colour: Deep gold – one of the darkest white wines.
Key markers: Lychee is the signature aroma – highly diagnostic. Rose petals and exotic spice. Very intense aromatics. Almost oily texture.
Structure: Full body with LOW acidity. High alcohol. Can feel slightly bitter on the finish (phenolic).
Common confusions: Viognier (stone fruits vs lychee), Muscat (more grapey), Torrontés (higher acidity).
Notable vintages for Gewürztraminer:
Parents: Savagnin
Considered a standard clone, known for good yields and aromatic intensity. Exhibits classic Gewürztraminer characteristics – lychee, rose petal, and spice.
Early budding and ripening, potentially suitable for cooler climates or shorter growing seasons. Similar aromatic profile to Clone 90, but often with a slightly more delicate structure.
High yielding, vigorous clone. Produces wines with pronounced floral aromas and a full body. Can be prone to overripening in warm climates.
Selected for its consistent performance in California conditions. Good fruit set and moderate vigor. Wines display typical Gewürztraminer aromatics with a balance of acidity.
Books and articles about Gewürztraminer: