Gewurztraminer is the most extravagant grape variety in the Alsatian vineyard. Full-bodied and smooth, it offers an explosion of aromas. Its notes of exotic fruits (lychees, passion fruit, pineapple, mango, etc.) and flowers (especially roses) are perfect as an aperitif or to accompany foie gras or Asian cuisine.
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You Need to Know About This Appellation
History of AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer
The AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer covers the entire Alsatian vineyard, offering wines of great diversity. These fruity and spicy white wines express themselves differently depending on the terroir and the estate. Renowned throughout France for its unique aromatic profile, AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer is available as dry, off-dry, sweet, or even dessert wines (late harvest and selection of noble grains).
Climate and Terroir of AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer
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Climate: Alsace enjoys a semi-continental climate that is warm, dry, and sunny, thanks to its geographical location. The Vosges mountains protect the region, making it one of the driest wine regions in France.
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Soils: AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer spans the entire AOC Alsace area, offering a wide variety of soils (granite, schist, limestone, marl, etc.).
The Essential Grape of AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer
Gewurztraminer belongs to the same family as Traminer, an old grape variety cultivated in Alsace since the Middle Ages. However, Traminer was replaced in the late 19th century by Gewurztraminer, its more aromatic form. Gewurztraminer (literally "spicy Traminer") is renowned for its exuberant aromatic profile and complexity. Early-ripening, vigorous, and low-yielding, Gewurztraminer is also notable for the pink color of its berries at maturity.
Style of AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer Wines
Color: Intense yellow with golden reflections.
Aroma: Highly fruity and aromatic, Gewurztraminer delivers intense floral aromas (especially rose), exotic fruits (lychee), citrus, and sweet spices. In sweet wines, additional notes of candied fruits and botrytis may appear.
Palate: While varying according to terroir, AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer typically produces white wines with low acidity, powerful on the palate, and often with high alcohol content for the region. In sweet versions, the palate is coated with a rich, luscious texture and pleasing sweetness.
Serving Temperature: 9°-11°C
Aging Potential: 2 to 10 years.
Best Food Pairings with AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer Wine
Here are the best food pairings to enjoy with a bottle of dry or sweet white wine from a domaine or château in AOC Alsace Gewurztraminer:
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Dry wine: Aperitif, Asian cuisine (curry chicken), ginger shrimp.
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Sweet wine: Foie gras, Munster, Roquefort, raspberry-lychee tart.