Posts Tagged ‘Alsace’

Off the Vine: Gewurztraminer

Friday, June 24th, 2011


Gewurztraminer grapes are well-known for their floral fragrance and spicy flavors they tend to produce. They can be grown in a number of places, such as the United States, Germany, and New Zealand. However, it is most successful in The Alsace region of France. When climates are cool, the grapes are able to thrive. Warm climates or temperatures tend to hamper the grape’s growth and produce less desirable wines.

The Gewurztraminer grape variety can be made in a multitude of styles that range from semi-dry to completely dry. People often pair wines made with Gewurztraminer with spicy foods for a really great flavor combination. However, Gewurztraminer can also be crafted into a late harvest dessert wine that many people love for its delectable flavors. Some of the best dessert wines made from Gewurztraminer come from the Alsace region.

The next time you’re looking for a little something different, turn to a Gewurztraminer wine – dessert or dry – and see how it sparks your taste buds.

 

Spotlight on France: Alsace Region

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010

Located in the northeastern corner of France, the Alsace region is a little sliver of wine country that produces some lovely blends such as:

Riesling – Said to be the most elegant grape of the region, it offers up a dry and well-balanced wine that can be paired with shellfish, fish, and cold meats.

Gewurztraminer – Meaning “spicy” in German, it has a fruity taste with powerful aromas that may remind tasters of flowers.  It goes wonderfully with many traditional German dishes that include sausages and sauerkraut.

Pinot Blanc – A dry white wine, it has a faint fruity taste and aromas that will remind tasters of peaches or pears.

Tokay Pinot Gris – A rich white wine with a near-golden color that actually has the power to replace a red wine when eating a dish that features red meat.

Sylvaner – Originally from Australia, it is a fresh and fruity dry white wine with an interesting pale green color.  Best when served young and preferably with fish.

Crémant d’Alsace – A sparkling wine that is found in several other wine regions as well, though it is most popular when from Alsace.  Perfect with desserts when served young.