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Written by Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein

I have often thought that if more people attempted to pronounce Gewurztraminer (gə-ˈvu̇rt-ˌstra-mə-nər), more of it would be consumed. In my experience, those that take the risk are typically happy that they tried. The wine that sounds like a sobriety test is remarkable for its accessible, delicious, straightforward character. It's unmistakable and refreshingly forthright. And in spite of its intimidating name, Gewurztraminer is not an intimidating wine. Though perhaps a little less flexible in pairing with food than some other white wines, its flavors and personality are forceful, and I like that in a wine. Fun fact: only in Germany, and nowhere else in the world, does the grape’s name include the umlaut, as in Gewürztraminer!

0.25%

Total vineyard/wine grape plantings in California
1,177 Acres

Bearing and non-bearing area in California

0.25%

Total vineyard/wine grape plantings in California
476.32 Hectares

Bearing and non-bearing area in California

(Year end 2021)

Signature Styles & Characteristics

Although any grape can be interpreted in innovative and at times, outlier styles, the following chart/graphic represents the preponderance of what you will find in California.

Dryness/Residual Sugar

Still: 100 percent on a scale from Dry to Sweet of Dryness/Residual Sugar.
Acid (potential)

Still: 50 percent on a scale from Low to High of Acid (potential).
Alcohol (potential)

Still: 100 percent on a scale from Low to High of Alcohol (potential).
Body (weight on palate)

Still: 100 percent on a scale from Light to Full of Body (weight on palate).
Texture

Still: 100 percent on a scale from Tart and Lean to Round and Smooth of Texture.

Aromas/Flavors

Fruit

Apple, pear, peach, apricot, tangerine, lychee, orange, orange zest, passion fruit, pineapple, golden raisin, mango, pink grapefruit
Vegetable

Ginger root, jicama
Floral

Rose, honeysuckle, tuberose, freesia, gardenia, jasmine
Earth

Kerosene or fusel oil, smoke, mineral
Wood

Toasted almond, vanilla
Other

White pepper, sauerkraut, clove, cinnamon, anise, nutmeg, mace, honey, crème fraiche