Gewurztraminer Wine Guide
Explore Gewurztraminer, the intensely aromatic white grape of Alsace. Learn about its lychee and rose petal flavors, spicy food pairings, and character.
Characteristics
- Medium to full body with low acidity
- Explosive aromas of lychee, rose petal, and ginger
- Rich, oily texture even in dry versions
- High alcohol with an impression of sweetness
Key Regions
Food Pairings
- Thai and Indian curries
- Moroccan tagines
- Chinese dim sum
- Washed-rind cheeses
Serving Temperature
45-50°F (7-10°C)
The Most Aromatic White Grape
Gewurztraminer is impossible to mistake for anything else. Its explosive bouquet of lychee, rose petals, and exotic spice announces itself the moment the cork is pulled. The name itself means “spice traminer,” and the wine delivers on that promise with an intensity that polarizes drinkers — you either fall in love or find it overwhelming. For those who embrace it, Gewurztraminer offers one of wine’s most distinctive experiences.
Tasting Gewurztraminer
Classic Flavors
- Fruit: Lychee, passion fruit, grapefruit, mango
- Secondary: Rose petal, ginger, cinnamon, Turkish delight
- With age: Marmalade, smoke, honey, dried apricot
On the Palate
Medium to full-bodied with low acidity and a rich, oily texture. Even dry versions carry an impression of sweetness from the intensely ripe fruit. Alcohol levels are often high (13.5-15%).
World Regions
Alsace, France
The undisputed home of great Gewurztraminer. Alsace produces both dry (sec) and sweet (Vendange Tardive, Selection de Grains Nobles) versions. Grand Cru sites like Hengst and Goldert produce wines of extraordinary complexity.
Northern Italy
Alto Adige (Sudtirol) produces lighter, more restrained versions under the name Traminer Aromatico, benefiting from cool alpine air.
Food Pairings
Gewurztraminer’s aromatic intensity and low acidity make it ideal with:
- Thai and Indian curries
- Moroccan tagines
- Chinese dim sum
- Munster and washed-rind cheeses
The Spice Route Wine
Few wines handle spicy food as well as Gewurztraminer. Its slight residual sweetness and rich texture tame chili heat, while its aromatic complexity complements the spices in Asian and North African cuisines.
Learn More with Sommo
Gewurztraminer ranges from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. Scan labels with Sommo to decode the style before you pour and track which expressions you enjoy most.
