GewürztraminerThe aromatic powerhouse that turns heads with its exotic perfume and lychee charm.

Gewürztraminer, whose name literally means "spiced Traminer" in German, is one of the most distinctive and recognizable grape varieties in the wine world. Originating from the village of Tramin (Termeno) in Italy's Alto Adige region, this pink-skinned grape has found its spiritual home in Alsace, France, where it produces some of the world's most celebrated examples.

What makes Gewürztraminer special is its unmistakable aromatic intensity—you can identify it blind from across the room. The grape thrives in cooler climates and produces wines ranging from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. Alsace remains its flagship region, though excellent versions also come from Germany's Pfalz, New Zealand's Marlborough, and pockets of North America. Its thick skins give the wine a beautiful golden color and remarkable aging potential.

Gewürztraminer is an explosion of exotic aromatics: imagine lychee, rose petals, Turkish delight, ginger, and tropical fruits all dancing in your glass. On the palate, expect flavors of candied citrus peel, honeysuckle, passion fruit, and signature spice notes that give the grape its name. The texture is often rich and oily with relatively low acidity but noticeable viscosity.

This wine is a natural companion to Asian cuisine—think Thai curries, Chinese five-spice dishes, and Indian tandoori. It also pairs beautifully with Munster cheese (an Alsatian tradition), foie gras, smoked salmon, and spicy sausages. The wine's aromatic intensity and slight sweetness in many styles help tame heat and complement bold flavors that would overwhelm more delicate wines.