"Spicy grape from Tramin" is the direct translation from German that describes the white grape varieties of Gewurztraminer. This grape, hailing from the Italian city of Tramin, found its calling in Germany and France (Alsace). This variety is very capricious, requiring certain climatic conditions and constant supervision.
Preferring cool weather, it does not tolerate drought and depleted soils. That is why it is cultivated in the United States, Canada, Italy, Australia, Germany and Austria. Gewurztraminer is a symbol of fine white wines from Alsace. In addition, it has received widespread recognition in Germany and Austria. Gewurztraminer wine is a strong, fragrant semi-dry wine with a straw-yellow colour.
The wine has a specifically intense and spicy taste. This is the only wine that goes well with spicy cuisine, such as Indian or Thai. The Alsatian wine seems to be sweetish, and the German and Austrian kinds are drier. The main advantage of Gewurztraminer wine is, of course, its amazing flavour that has notes of lychee, rose, ginger and exotic fruits. If you have ever tasted lychees (Chinese plums), you will recognize a Gewurztraminer wine immediately.
Gewurztraminer wine is best served at the table as an aperitif or immediately after a meal. Gewurztraminer has a complex character and therefore requires special attention when choosing a gastronomic satellite. If you choose the "wrong" dish, it can negate the first impressions from this wonderful wine. Gewurztraminer wine is best combined with dishes from Indian, Thai and particularly Chinese cuisine, as well as with moulded cheeses, particularly Munster cheese. It is best served chilled at 8–10 ° C.
