Gewurztraminer: The Boldly Aromatic Alsace Grape Variety Guide

Gewurztraminer is an aromatic grape of exceptional intensity, whose name means “spiced Traminer” in German.

I. Origins and Etymology

• Gewurztraminer is an aromatic mutation of Traminer (or Savagnin Rose), a very old grape variety originating from the village of Tramin in Italy’s South Tyrol.
• The prefix Gewurz (“spiced” in German) was added in the 19th century to distinguish this intensely aromatic version from its more discreet parent.
• It was in Alsace that it found its ideal terroir and worldwide fame.

II. Alsace, Land of Excellence

• Gewurztraminer is one of the four noble Alsace grape varieties authorized for Grand Cru appellation.
• It represents about 20% of Alsace’s vineyard acreage and produces the region’s most immediately recognizable wines.
• The finest terroirs are found around Turckheim, Kaysersberg, and Riquewihr, where the grape develops exceptional concentration and complexity.

III. Unique Aromatic Profile

• Gewurztraminer offers one of the most immediate and exuberant aromatic profiles in the wine world: lychee, rose, passion fruit, sweet spices (ginger, cinnamon), and sometimes notes of candied orange zest.
• Its color is a deep golden yellow, often tinged with characteristic orange highlights.
• On the palate, it is broad, rich, and powerful, with low acidity compensated by alcoholic richness and extraordinary aromatic intensity.
• It pairs beautifully with spicy cuisines — Thai, Indian, Moroccan — and strong cheeses such as Munster.