In this article, you’ll learn to say the correct Gewürztraminer pronunciation so you can order it like a native.

By the time you finish reading this blog and listening to the very best audio examples which we scoured the internet to find and chose the very best, you’ll feel like a veritable wine connoisseur, and will be confident ordering your next glass of white, red, or bubbly. 

Are you ready?

The first stop is Gewürztraminer pronunciation, because Gewürztraminer pronunciation seems to be what gives new wine enthusiasts (and sometimes experienced ones) the most trouble. 

Then, we’ll move on to some of the most difficult to pronounce wine varietals from around the world, so you can pop the cork with confidence. 

Your Gewürztraminer pronunciation guide

Gewürztraminer pronunciation can be a bit of an enigma to the uninitiated. That’s due partly to the fact that it’s not pronounced how it looks – at least, not in English.

But we shouldn’t expect English sounds from Gewürztraminer pronunciation, because Gewürztraminer is a German word. 

Therefore, the first notable difference in Gewürztraminer pronunciation is in the “w.” In German, the consonant “w” is pronounced like the English “v” in “video.” 

Next, note the two dots over the “u.” This is an “umlaut,” which changes the sound of the vowel in German. 

Learning how to pronounce an umlaut can be a bit tricky. In the case of Gewürztraminer pronunciation, where the umlaut is over the “u,” you can try shaping your lips as if to say the word “too.” 

Instead of making an “u” sound, however, make an “i” sound with your lips in that rounded position. That is loosely the sound “ü” makes in Gewürztraminer pronunciation.

So, when you put those two German language rules together, Gewürztraminer pronunciation sounds something like: “ga-VERTZ-trah-mee-ner.”

What does Gewürztraminer mean in German?

Now that you understand how Gewürztraminer pronunciation works, it’s important to understand what that word you keep repeating means! 

The name “Gewürztraminer” literally means “Spiced Traminer” in the German language. 

“Spiced” because of the notes of cinnamon, allspice, ginger and pepper the wine possesses.

“Traminer” because that is the name of an ancient grape variety. 

Traminer grapes, also known as Savagnin grapes, are one of the world’s oldest grape varieties. Over time, the grape mutated into a pink-skinned, aromatic, and “spicy” grape. 

After all that talk about the German language, you might think that Gewürztraminer wine was from Germany. This is both true and false. 

Let us explain… 

Is Gewürztraminer a German wine?

Gewürztraminer grapes are very particular about their soil quality, and prefer cooler climates. They are extremely difficult to grow and, if not happy with the terroir (soil and climate) of their surroundings, will not display the beautiful aromas and fruit-forward flavors they are known for. 

Germany did not make the Gewürztraminer grape happy. 

So, although Gewürztraminer pronunciation is 100% German, and the very first Gewürztraminer wine was produced there, Gewürztraminer rose to fame in Alsace, France. 

Alsace is a cool, dry region of France that closely borders Germany. As luck would have it, just hopping across the German border made Gewürztraminer grapes very happy indeed. 

This very particular pink grape truly shines in Alsace, where the resulting wines have intoxicating aromas of sweet spices and rose petals, and luscious fruit flavors of lychee, grapefruit, and pineapple. 

How to enjoy your Gewürztraminer wine

Gewürztraminer grapes love the cold, so that’s exactly how you should enjoy your wine – chilled. 

Because of it’s sweet aroma, you might think it would be a sweet wine like a Moscato or Riesling. Actually, if you compare Gewürztraminer vs Riesling, you might find the former quite dry. 

Because of the wine’s spiced qualities, some great Gewürztraminer pairings include spicy foods like Indian or Thai curries.  But a great Gewurztraminer is perfect for Thanksgiving dinner spreads because of all the spices and herbs involved. 

So now you know how to pronounce Gewürztraminer, where it is from, and how to enjoy it.

But, let’s face it, Gewürztraminer pronunciation isn’t the only thing you need to know for your next Sonoma wine tasting. Here is a pronunciation guide for wines you might wish to try. 

15 hard-to-pronounce wine types explained

With this helpful pronunciation guide, there’s no need to feel intimidated by challenging wine names. Here’s how to tell your Cuvée from your Viognier – and how to pronounce them. 

1. Sangiovese

You pronounce Sangiovese: “SAN-jio-VAY-zay”

What is Sangiovese?

• Sangiovese is the most popular red wine grape varietal in Italy.
• Sangiovese grapes account for 10% of all grapes planted in Italy. With over 400 wine grapes in the country, that’s a lot! There are many mutations of the grapes, which result in very different tasting wines.
• Sangiovese is the primary varietal used in Chianti wine (which we will discuss next) but it is also used in many other types of red wine.
• The wine has notes of dried cherries, figs, and roses.

2. Chianti

You pronounce Chianti: “kee-AHN-tee”

What is Chianti?

• Chianti is actually a wine region, not a type of grape. The grape used in Chianti is the Sangiovese grape mentioned above. Chianti is in Tuscany.
• To be called Chianti, a wine must be produced in the Chianti region and be made from at least 80% Sangiovese.
• Chianti wines may contain up to 20% of other grapes like Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
• The two common types of Chianti are Chianti and Chianti Classico – which is a bit higher-end.

3. Viognier

You pronounce Voignier: “vee-oh-NYAY”

What is Viognier?

• Viognier is a white wine from the south of France.
• It is full of perfumed notes of tangerine, mango, peach, honeysuckle, and vanilla.
• Chardonnay drinkers will most likely enjoy Viognier. A Viogier has a similarly full body, but is less acidic and more aromatic.
• Viognier is best enjoyed young. It doesn’t cellar well past 3 or 4 years. 

4. Grenache

You pronounce Grenache: “gruh-NAASH”

What is Grenache?

• Grenache is a medium-bodied red wine that originated from Spain, where it is known as Garnacha (garr-NA-cha).
• Garnacha grapes are often used in blended wines, but single variety Grenache wines are becoming increasingly popular.
• Grenache wine has medium acidity, medium tannins, and a high alcohol content. It can be made in any style from dry to sweet.
• This wine has notes of violet flowers, cinnamon, and ripe red fruits.

5. Cabernet Sauvignon

You pronounce Cabernet Sauvignon: “ka-ber-NAY so-vin-YON”

What is Cabernet Sauvignon?

• Cabernet Sauvignon is the most popular red wine grape in North America.
• The Cabernet Sauvignon grape was born when Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc grapes crossed naturally in the 1600’s in Bordeaux, France.
• Cabernet Sauvignon wine is full-bodied with dark fruit flavors of blackberry and black currant. It’s also common to detect savory notes of black pepper, graphite, tobacco, and bell pepper.
• A Cab has bold flavor and a high tannin content, which makes it great for pairing with grilled meats and peppery sauces. 

6. Merlot

You pronounce Merlot: “mer-LOW”

What is Merlot?

• Merlot, which in French means The Little Blackbird, is the second most popular red grape in America.
• Merlot is a very approachable wine, and its soft, elegant flavors make it easy to drink both with and without food. 
• Merlot is medium-to full-bodied with moderate acidity and alcohol content and soft tannins.
• Tasting notes of Merlot include plum, blackberry, cherry, and chocolate. 

7. Cuvée

You pronounce Cuvée: “coo-VAY”

What is Cuvée?

• Cuvée is the French word for “vat” or “tank.” It is sometimes used to imply quality or prestige.
• Cuvée can refer to two different things. It can be a champagne made from the first-pressed grape juice. But, cuvée can also refer to a still wine that is a specific blend.
• Cuvée is not a regulated term, so any winemaker can use it.

8. Sémillon

You pronounce Sémillon: “se-mi-YON”

What is Sémillon?

• Sémillon is a full-bodied French white wine. It is France’s 3rd most planted white wine variety after Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
• Sémillon is one of the grapes blended in White Bordeaux, and is the primary ingredient in Bordeaux’s dessert wines.
• Sémillon wine from cooler climates can taste of lemon, apple, pear, while warmer climate wines taste like mango, peach, and papaya.

9. Pinot Noir

You pronounce Pinot Noir: “PEE-no nWAAR”

What is Pinot Noir?

• Pinot Noir is one of the oldest grapes in the world, and hails from the Burgundy region of France.
• Pinot Noir is a lighter red wine with silky tannins and a seductive mouthfeel. Pinots are bursting with berry flavors, with undertones of earthy mushroom, allspice, and tea leaves.
• Pinot Noir grapes are some of the most difficult to grow – requiring cool climates with lots of sunshine and well-draining soil.
• Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is some of the best Pinot Noir in the world. 

10. Tempranillo

You pronounce Tempranillo: “tem-pruh-NEE-yo”

What is Tempranillo?

• Tempranillo is a red wine from Spain. The name comes from the Spanish word for “early” which is “temprano.” It is so named because Tempranillo grapes ripen more quickly than other Spanish varieties.
• Tempranillo has balanced flavors of fruit and earth, with notes of cherry, tomato, and leather.
• When oak-aged, Tempranillo is often ruddy-orange in hue.

11. Rioja

You pronounce Rioja: “ri-OH-ha”

What is Rioja?

• Rioja is a red blend made in the Rioja region of Spain. Tempranillo is the primary grape in Rioja.
• Rioja is known for its complex structure and bold tannins.
• There are four styles of Rioja wine which are classified by how long the wine has been barreled. From youngest to oldest, the types are: Generic Rioja, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva. 

12. Montepulciano

You pronounce Montepulciano: “mon-tay-pul-chee-AH-no”

What is Montepulciano?

• Montepulciano is the second most planted red grape in Italy after Sangiovese.
• This medium-bodied red wine has tasting notes of red plum, sour cherry, and even oregano.
• Montepulciano should not be confused with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which is actually made mostly from Sangiovese. 

13. Moët

You pronounce Moët: “mo-ett”

What is Moët?

• Moët et Chandon, commonly referred to as simply “Moët,” is one of the world’s largest champagne producers and a prominent champagne house.
• Moët’s best known label is Dom Perignon (daum pe-ri-NYON), which is one of the most prestigious and popular champagnes worldwide.

14. Sauvignon Blanc

You pronounce Sauvignon Blanc: “so-vin-yon BLAANK”

What is Sauvignon Blanc?

• Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine from the Bordeaux region of France, where it was used in white blends and dessert wines.
• It was in New Zealand where Sauvignon Blanc found it’s fame. Some of the best and most fruity Sauvignon Blanc wines hail from Marlborough.
• Sauvignon Blanc is known for its high acidity and low sugar levels, which give it a refreshing crispness.
• A glass of Sauv Blanc can have notes of passionfruit, grapefruit, Meyer lemon, bell pepper, and gooseberry. 

15. Shiraz/Syrah

This is a two-for-one! That’s because Shiraz and Syrah are the same grape.

You pronounce Shiraz & Syrah: “schuh-RAAZ” and “si-RAH”

So what’s the difference between Syrah and Shiraz? 

• “Syrah” is what it’s called in France, where it is the main red wine grape in the Northern Rhône Valley. “Shiraz” is what winemakers in Australia call it.

• While they are really the same thing, the two different names have sometimes come to refer to the distinct winemaking styles of each region.
• A “Shiraz” is sometimes more lush and fruit-forward, while a “Syrah” might be more restrained and floral.
• Shiraz/Syrah is a full-bodied wine with notes of blueberry and blackberry, as well as an interesting combination of licorice, black pepper, and smoked meats. 

Get out there and order wine like a native!

You now know everything you need to know about Viognier, Montepulciano, and Gewürztraminer pronunciation. You’re all set to order wine like a pro at your next Sonoma wine tasting. 

And, if you need a little help with more than just pronunciation, we’ve got some life-saving wine tasting tips as well.

This is not to say that everything pairs well with Gewürztraminer. Dry Gewürztraminer wine is actually quite complex. With strong exotic aromas of lychee and rose petals, and notes of smoke and spices – this wine is certainly a statement. 

We’re here to help you make that statement ring true with the perfect Gewürztraminer pairings from every corner of the globe. 

But, before we get to pairing this delectable white wine, understanding the tasting notes of Gewürztraminer is important. 

What does white wine Gewürztraminer taste like?  

Gewürztraminer wine is not just about bold aromas – it has bold flavors too. It is a rich, full-bodied white wine, with mild acidity and often high alcohol levels. Depending on the climate of where it was grown, and the time of harvest however, the taste can be quite different. 

If harvested early, a white wine Gewürztraminer will be slightly more acidic, with notes of grapefruit. If left until late harvest, it will become much sweeter, with predominant flavors of apricot, honey, or pineapple.

Alsatian Gewürztraminer is usually off-dry to semi-sweet, with intriguing notes of fresh lychee, clove, rose, jasmine, smoke, and nutmeg. 

Gewürztraminer grown in cooler areas of the US such as California, Oregon, and Washington have more concentrated flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and allspice. These heightened spice notes mean that they will pair slightly differently with food than their Alsatian counterparts.

Gewürztraminer pairing tips 

When looking for the perfect Gewürztraminer pairing, try to base your choices on harmony more than contrast. Opt for spiced, fruity, rich, or aromatic dishes.

If the food is more savory, opt for a dry Gewürztraminer wine. 

If it’s sweeter, get a sweeter Gewürztraminer. 

And remember that this wine doesn’t always play well with salt. Instead, spicy, fatty, or herbed dishes will make a better Gewürztraminer pairing. 

James Beard award winning Sommelier paired our Dry White Gewurztraminer with a butter lettuce salad at a four course food and wine pairing in Los Angeles.

Read the tasting notes on your bottle of wine. Is there a lot of tropical fruit flavor? Some forward notes of cinnamon and ginger? Or maybe it’s full of smoke? Find food with those flavors too. 

Spicy Gewürztraminer is meant for spicy, fatty, dense foods. It’s delectable at holiday feasts, or with fiery Asian dishes. 

Go for foods that are as daring as your wine. 

So, without further ado, let’s dive right into our favorite Gewürztraminer food pairings. 

15 Gewürztraminer pairings we love 

1. Alsatian food 

Just as Alsatian terroir is ideal for Gewürztraminer wine, so too is Alsatian cuisine. Try a sweet and nutty Muenster cheese, a slice of French bacon and Gruyère tarte flambée, or a Quiche Lorraine as an Alsace Gewürztraminer food pairing. The spice and floral notes of your white wine Gewürztraminer will brighten up these classic rustic dishes.

2. Cheese 

Wine and cheese are one of the most famous food pairings of all time, and of course, there are perfect cheese pairings to be found for Gewürztraminer. Salty cheeses and Gewürztraminer are not the best together, so opt instead for mild cow’s milk cheeses. There are also good matches to be found among stinky cheese, but you have to choose them carefully. 

Of course, we’ve already mentioned that Muenster and Gruyère are fabulous Gewürztraminer pairings, but you can also try Roquefort, Capocollo, Stilton, Gorgonzola, Gouda, Boursin, or even Swiss cheese.  

3. Duck

Gewürztraminer works wonderfully with many white slices of meat, but our favorite meat pairing is duck. With its floral aroma and crisp acidity, Gewürztraminer contrasts beautifully against this delicious fatty white meat. 

Duck works as a Gewürztraminer pairing in many forms. In particular, spiced duck leg, duck curry, foie gras, and Duck Breast à l’Orange are delightful matches. The pepper, star anise, and citrus of Duck à l’Orange add to the sensory experience of your spiced Gewürztraminer wine. 

4. Fish

Raw, grilled, or smoked – fish is a great Gewürztraminer pairing. Oily fish with strong flavors or sauces with a fruity or mustardy touch go beautifully with this aromatic wine. A smoked trout or smoked salmon will be particularly enhanced by the sweet and spicy flavors of Gewürztraminer. 

Gewürztraminer goes well with red snapper, halibut, mahi-mahi, tuna, salmon, trout, swordfish, and even sturgeon. 

Experiment with the strong lychee aromas of white wine Gewürztraminer with a Lychee Tuna Tartare dish. Not only with lychee and tuna be good Gewürztraminer pairings, but the coriander and red onion will help bring out the gently spiced flavors in the wine. 

5. Truffles

Here is a surprising and delightful Gewürztraminer pairing! If your Gewürztraminer wine has earth undertones like hydrocarbon or kerosene, it will be the perfect match for the equally aromatic truffle. 

Try Gewürztraminer with a bucket of popcorn with butter and truffle salt during your next movie night. Or add a truffle sauce to a fish dish – such as this Lingcod with Black Truffle Vinaigrette. 

6. Egg dishes

Gewürztraminer doesn’t need to be just a dinner wine. This silky, rich wine is actually the perfect match for any dish that relies heavily on eggs. As such, it makes a delightful brunch beverage as well. Pair your white wine Gewürztraminer with quiches, cheesy omelets, smoked salmon scramble, or simple fried eggs. 

7. Shellfish and crustaceans

If it comes from the sea, Gewürztraminer is a good bet. Whether steamed, grilled, stewed or served in a salad, shellfish and crustaceans make delectable Gewürztraminer pairings. This versatile white wine can even go up against heavier seafood dishes like chowder or rich parmesan oysters. 

8. Thanksgiving dinner 

Gewürztraminer is often a great and unexpected Thanksgiving wine pairing. Both light and dark meat turkey, as well as bright cranberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes, make all wonderful Gewürztraminer pairings. 

The sweetly spiced nature of white wine Gewürztraminer also makes it match well with sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and Thanksgiving desserts. 

9. Moroccan tagines

With rich bold flavors and earthy, exotic spices, North African dishes are the perfect match for white wine Gewürztraminer. Cumin, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric, allspice, cinnamon, and cardamom all play heavy roles in this delightful cuisine. 

In particular, a Moroccan tagine with roasted meat, nuts, and dried fruit is the perfect blend of spicy, fatty, and sweet. Try a lamb and apricot tagine with your next bottle of Gewürztraminer, and the flavors of both dish and drink will sing. 

10. Thai curry 

The creaminess of coconut milk, the heat of chilis, and the fragrance of spices in Thai cuisine make it one of our favorite Gewürztraminer pairings when the wine is off-dry. In particular, a sweet-yet-spicy red curry or creamy yellow curry pairs well. Even beef satay and tom Kha soup are good bets. 

For the absolute perfect Gewürztraminer pairing, whip up this Red Duck Curry with pineapple and lychee. The tropical fruit, creamy coconut milk, spicy chilis, and fatty duck make this a match made in heaven.  

11. Indian food 

Dry to semi-dry Gewürztraminer is a no-brainer for heavily spiced foods. The cumin, cinnamon, coriander, turmeric, and coriander found in Indian food are heaven paired with a glass of this exotic white wine. 

Curries with meat, seafood, or eggplant, and biryanis make great Gewürztraminer pairings. Try your wine with tandoori chicken, or even saag paneer. When pairing Gewürztraminer with Indian food, go for a wine from California or Oregon. Since wines are spicier than those from Alsace, they work even better with the complex flavor in Indian spices. 

If you just want to add a hint of Indian flare to one of your own recipes, try adding a spiced mango chutney on top of your protein. 

12. Sichuan cuisine 

Tongue-numbing peppercorn, blistering chili, and a punch of bold flavors – Sichuan cuisine is the fire we’d throw ourselves into again and again. If you want to compliment that heat, then it’s all about a spice-heavy, lightly sweet Gewürztraminer. Pair it with Kung Pao shrimp, Mapo Tofu, or a steaming hot pot with any variety of protein. 

Look for recipes with ginger, which will meld nicely with the wine’s spiced notes, particularly if it’s a wine from the Pacific Northwest. One of our favorite choices in Gan Bian Si Ji Dou, the Sichuanese dry stir-fried string bean wonder. With chili-oil, peppercorn, ginger, garlic, and pork — a white wine Gewürztraminer was born to make this dish shine. 

13. Fruit salads and sauces

Gewürztraminer is a very fruity wine, and thus goes well with most things fruit! Think anything from a light Waldorf salad to brunch waffles with coconut and pineapple sauce, to a spiced tropical fruit chutney. White wine Gewürztraminer pairs very well with pear, peach, apple, mango, coconut, pineapple, and quince. 

We suggest you try this simple Spinach and Pear Salad from Cooking Chat. Not only is the pear a great Gewürztraminer pairing; this salad also contains garam masala, so it will play perfectly off the wine’s spicy notes. 

14. Sweet roasted vegetables

The sweet aromas of Gewürztraminer wine lend well to the natural sweetness in roasted veggies. In particular, bell pepper, eggplant, squash, carrot, red onion – and even artichoke – work well as Gewürztraminer pairings. 

Try pairing your Gewürz with butternut squash ravioli or a Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Tapenade 

15. Desserts 

Sweeter Gewürztraminer wine works surprisingly well as a dessert wine – particularly when your dessert asserts some of the same spiced flavors as your wine. Because white wine Gewürztraminer has notes of cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg, desserts like apple strudel and pumpkin pie make perfect Gewürztraminer pairings. 

You can also play off the floral aromas of your Gewürztraminer with rosewater scented baklava – a match made in heaven. If you want to tap into the tropical fruit flavors of your wine, then mango-based desserts, especially ones with ginger, make for another great Gewürztraminer pairing. 

Remember, you want your wine to be sweeter than your dessert, or it can make your wine fall flat. When in doubt, choose a simple dessert that allows the flavor of the wine to shine. 

Choosing the perfect bottle of Gewürztraminer wine 

The meal you plan to make will make a great difference in the bottle of wine you should choose. If you’re preparing a fine French meal, then help yourself straight to an Alsace Gewürztraminer, Alsace Grand Cru AOC being the finest. 

If you’re planning a spicy Asian, North African dish, or a holiday feast, opt instead for a spiced dry Gewürztraminer like our 2019 Dry Gewürztraminer Calandrelli Vineyard, a Halleck Vineyard favorite, made right here in Sonoma, California. 

No matter the season or time of day, there will be a perfect bottle of Gewürztraminer to make your meal shine. From a summertime brunch to a winter holiday roast, a Gewürztraminer wine can make all the difference. 

If you’re already a white wine drinker, why not swap out your go-to for something new? You’ll find enough similarities between Gewürztraminer vs Riesling to make it an easy alternative – with enough differences to still make it feel novel and surprising. Just remember to read the tasting notes on your bottle of wine, and match it to food accordingly using our tips.

So break out the recipes. From fish to fowl to mushrooms to Muenster, there are so many divine Gewürztraminer pairings just waiting to be explored.

In this example, we’re talking about Gewürztraminer and Riesling. 

Or rather, Gewürztraminer vs Riesling.

You’ve probably experienced Riesling for yourself – or at the very least heard of it – as it is much more wide-spread in both cultivation and marketing. Gewürztraminer wine, on the other hand, is a bit more elusive.

And, side-by-side, many people don’t know how to tell the difference between the two. 

So what is the difference between Gewürztraminer and Riesling, and how does one tell them apart? 

One of the easiest ways to tell the difference in a comparison of Gewürztraminer vs Riesling is with your nose. Both white wines are incredibly aromatic, and each has its own distinctive scent that is immediately recognizable. 

With Gewürztraminer wine, you will be greeted with an alluring aroma of exotic lychee and spices. A Riesling, on the other hand, will have sweet yet strong stone fruit aromas with a hint of jasmine – and sometimes even petrol! 

That’s not the only thing that sets these two varietals apart, though. In this comparison of Gewürztraminer vs Riesling, we will cover all the different aspects of each one, so you can choose the best glass of wine for your next dinner party or casual night in.

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: what’s the difference?  

Riesling and Gewürztraminer wine are both aromatic white wines that share similar roots. But there are some marked differences between the two that make them altogether separate experiences – both with and without food. 

Let’s take a look at the distinct characteristics of each one: to learn where they came from, how they taste, and the best way to enjoy them.

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: origin 

As you may have guessed from its mouthful of a name, the first Gewürztraminer wine hails from Germany. But the Gewürztraminer grape is a mutation of the green-skinned Traminer grape from northern Italy. 

“Gewurz” means “spiced” in German, and as such, the Gewürztraminer grape creates wine with aromas and flavors of pumpkin pie spices that its predecessor does not. An even more startling transformation, perhaps, is in color. While the Traminer grape is green, the Gewürztraminer grape is decidedly pink. 

While Gewürztraminer wine was first made in Germany, that’s not the region that gave it its rise to fame. Indeed, the Gewürztraminer grape did not fare well at all in Germany, as it is a fickle grape known for throwing tantrums at the slightest change in weather. 

Instead, the Gewürztraminer grape found its home in Alsace, France, a region that had the perfect terroir for this picky pink wine grape. Interestingly, even though the region has not changed, it has spent time belonging to both Germany or France at one point in time.

Riesling wine also comes from Germany. The difference between Gewürztraminer vs Riesling is that Riesling thrived in Germany. Some of the best Riesling wine comes from the Rhine River region where it originated. It also has much older origins, dating back to at least 1435.  

Riesling is a very distant relative of Gewürztraminer in that one of its parents is the Traminer. Riesling grapes are also a mix of Gouais Blanc, a French grape that is an ancestor of many popular white wines, including Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Petit Verdot. 

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: vineyard regions

The growing regions of Gewürztraminer vs Riesling are very different in size and scope. 

Riesling wine is grown all over the world, from France and Germany to Canada, South Africa, Chile, the United States, and Kazakhstan. It thrives in cold climates, which produce much sweeter varieties of white wine, but also does well in hot climates as well. It is Germany’s most popular wine, and it is grown in one-fifth of Alsace vineyards. This makes it a much more well-known and wide-spread wine than Gewürztraminer.

Gewürztraminer, being the picky little wine variety it is, craves very specific circumstances. You will only find Gewürztraminer wineries in cool regions like Alsace France, Northern Italy, the Australian Alps, the Pacific Northwest, and Sonoma County, California. 

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: color

Another notable difference in Gewürztraminer vs Riesling is their appearance. 

Riesling wine grapes have retained their parents’ bright green color, and thus sometimes produce a wine with a greenish tint. In your glass, it can appear to be anything from off-white to deep yellow, with green undertones. 

The pink Gewürztraminer grapes, on the other hand, produce a wine that is golden yellow or deep amber-gold in hue.  

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: mouthfeel

You’ll be able to detect one major difference in Gewürztraminer vs Riesling just by swirling your glass. 

Gewürztraminer wine has a much thicker viscosity. It has a round, luxurious mouthfeel – similar to drinking tea with honey. This silky texture makes it a very different experience altogether from a glass of Riesling, which is light and crisp.

There is a hint of effervescence to it as well and, sometimes, Riesling may even be perceived as bubbly. It has a more angular mouthfeel as opposed to a round one, a more drawn out finish, and is decidedly more acidic. 

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: aroma 

Being highly aromatic wines, both Gewürztraminer and Riesling are both instantly recognizable by their smell.

Gewürztraminer wine has a luscious, tropical aroma. Think of sweet fruits like lychee and pineapple, as well as wafting waves of rose petals. You will also get whiffs of everything from ginger and allspice to smoke and incense.  

Riesling wines are also floral, though instead of rose petals you will smell jasmine. The wine contains aromas of fruit such as Meyer lemon and lime, as well as ripe stone fruits like apricot, peach, or nectarine. 

You may also detect hints of petrol or diesel in an aged Riesling wine. This is due to a chemical compound known as trimethyl dihydronaphthalene (or more simply, TDN). The existence of TDN is a noticeable difference in the contest of Gewürztraminer vs Riesling wine. 

TDN forms as Riesling grapes ripen and age and is actually considered a good thing by many winemakers. As evidenced in Riesling, it can be quite enjoyable in small doses. 

High sun exposure, high acid content, and lack of water can all increase the content of TDN in the final Riesling wine. Rest assured that this is quite safe to drink, and like other aromas in popular wines such as “tar,” “cigar box,” or “graphite,” one might not think them appetizing at first whiff. But they certainly add to the experience and character of the wine, while pairing beautifully with smoky meals. 

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: tasting notes 

Both Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines have flavors that transform depending on the ripeness of the grape from which they were made. 

If you get a bottle of wine from a less ripe Riesling or Gewürztraminer grape, you will get more bright, acidic notes. If one allows the grape to mature, you will get sweeter, fuller, tropical fruit flavors. While this is true of both wine varieties, the tasting notes are still quite different in Gewürztraminer vs Riesling wine. 

Riesling is known for being more acidic – almost like lemonade. It has bright, fruit-forward flavors of lime zest, peach, and pear. A less ripe Riesling will taste more of lime or Meyer lemon and will transition through flavors of pineapple and then stone fruit as it ripens. Traditionally, Riesling is intended to be sweet – to balance out its acidity – although some modern varieties are drier. 

Gewürztraminer can be either dry, but is often made sweeter. Dryness depends on the winemaker.  Despite its sweet, tropical aroma, tasting heavily of lychee when ripe. A late harvest Gewürztraminer will taste more of pineapple and a less ripe one of tangy grapefruit. 

Even very citrusy Gewürztraminer wine will not have the same acidity of a Riesling. 

Gewürztraminer also has a taste of pepper and sweet spices, which makes it especially intriguing for pairing with food. 

The intense aromas of both white wines and the intriguing layers of flavor in both are best enjoyed chilled.

Gewürztraminer vs Riesling: pairing ideas 

Gewürztraminer and Riesling are similar enough to pair with many of the same foods – but there are certain dishes that each truly shines with. Both fragrant wines pair exceedingly well with a range of meals and are even stunning as apéritifs. 

Spicy Asian and North African Cuisine

Strong Indian and Asian flavors are a perfect match for both Rieslings and Gewürztraminer wines. You can pair them with Thai crab curry, a spiced duck leg, any meals heavy in ginger, clove, cinnamon, turmeric, marjoram, or allspice. 

The heavily spiced nature of Gewürztraminer makes it a better bet for curries and Moroccan tagines, as well as dishes where roasted meats are mixed with dried fruits. Cumin, rose water, coriander, and bay leaf are also perfect for Gewürztraminer pairings.  

The sweet and brightly acidic Riesling can tame the spiciest dish, and help you appreciate all the layers of flavor behind the heat. Riesling also pairs better with soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and rice vinegar, so it’s a fantastic refreshing choice for Japanese cuisine. 

Meat

Both Gewürztraminer and Riesling work wonderfully with a number of proteins from chicken and pork, to duck, shrimp, and crab.

If you’re planning a turkey or lamb dish, grab the Gewürztraminer, particularly an off-dry or dry Gewürztraminer wine. 

If the star of your meal is fish or oysters, then reach for the Riesling. 

Cheese

Delicately flavored soft cow’s milk cheese pairs best with both Riesling and Gewürztraminer wine. Try to steer clear of stinky cheeses for both of these wine pairings. 

Vegetarian

Sweet, roasted vegetable dishes work exceedingly well with both white wines. Eggplant, bell pepper, carrot, squash, and red onion are solid bets. You can also pair your white Gewürztraminer wine or Riesling with coconut and coconut milk dishes. 

Gewürztraminer is unique as a great wine pairing for artichokes. It is also best for fresh salads, especially those containing fruit. 

Desserts

Finally, you’ll be delighted to know that Rieslings and sweeter, late harvest Gewürztraminers go great with dessert. 

Rieslings are better for simple, refreshing desserts with berries or cream, while Gewürztraminer wines go great with those desserts but are truly the perfect companion for nutty and spiced desserts like apple strudel, baklava, or pumpkin pie. 

Choosing the right white wine for you

When it really comes down to it, choosing between Gewürztraminer and Riesling is really about preference. 

You will find that you even love both! 

If you like your wines sweeter or more acidic, you might opt for a Riesling. If you are looking for a richer, silkier, less acidic wine, try our Dry Gewürztraminer wine instead for a unique taste you may have never had before. 

While there are many differences in the contest of Gewürztraminer vs Riesling, they are both versatile and accessible. Both white wines are a fabulous year-round option and can be enjoyed with anything from an outdoor summer barbeque to a holiday feast. 

Armed with your new knowledge, you’ll now be able to plan meals for both the varietals here – and maybe even introduce a few of your friends to a wine they’ve never tried! 

Gewürztraminer, pronounced “ga-VERTZ-trah-mee-ner,” could most assuredly be identified in a blind taste test before anyone even took a sip. A truly sensual experience, Gewürztraminer is a white wine that makes itself known with unignorable, bold, tropical aromas. 

While Gewürztraminer might be identifiable on first sniff, many people have never heard of it. This is a shame, for it deserves just as much recognition as a Chardonnay, Sauv Blanc or Riesling – and can be a delightful alternative for drinkers of each. 

So what is this white wine, Gewürztraminer, and where does it come from? Is Gewürztraminer a dry wine or a sweet one? If it’s perfume is so bold, does that mean it’s difficult to pair?
In short: It comes from France by way of Germany, it can be both a dry or a sweet wine, and it’s actually quite easy to pair with many delicious dishes.

Curious to learn more? Let’s pick apart this alluring enigma of a white wine. 

What is Gewürztraminer wine? 

The white wine, Gewürztraminer, is a medium-to-full bodied wine that is usually off-dry or semi-sweet. It is explosively aromatic, with distinctive lychee aromas. For those who have not tasted the delectable lychee, you can imagine a fruit that embodies the character of rose petals. 

Gewürztraminer isn’t just about the fruit though. 

“Gewurz” means “spice” in German, and this wine was named so for good reason. When you sip a Gewürztraminer, your tongue might sift through waves of ginger, cinnamon, or allspice among the exotic fruity notes. 

Now that we’ve touched upon “gewurz,” let’s focus on “traminer.” 

Gewürztraminer grapes are a mutation of “Traminer grapes.” Traminer grapes, also known as Savagnin grapes, are one of the world’s oldest grapes, and the parent of Sauvignon Blanc. These grapes are known for mutation and, over time, became the highly aromatic, pink-skinned “spicy Traminer.” 

Gewürztraminer wine grapes are typically pink in color, which lends to the wine’s rose-gold tint. The grapes are very particular about soil quality, and lend well to cooler climates – which help to keep the alcohol levels down, the acidity up, and the fruity aromas at the forefront. 

But where is the best place to grow the white wine Gewürztraminer, and where is it from? 

Where does Gewürztraminer come from?

As you may have guessed from its German name, the first Gewürztraminer hailed from Germany. The first Gewürztraminer vineyard on record was in Pfalz, Germany over 400 years ago. 

Unfortunately, the grape was incredibly difficult to grow there, and while German scientists tried to make many crosses with other grapes to produce a less fickle fruit – the fruits of their labor were unsuccessful. 

And so, while Gewürztraminer wine is inherently German, that’s not the region in which it’s most famous.

The majority of Gewürztraminer is made in Alsace, a cool, dry region of France that borders Germany. 

In Alsace, the unique terroir (climate and soil) made the region perfect for this particular pink grape. Alsatian vineyards can even make dessert wines from Gewürztraminer, because the grapes can survive into late harvest there. These wines are more expensive, as they require harvesting individual bunches of botrytised grapes by hand.

Botrytised wines have been affected by botrytis cinerea, also known as “noble rot.” This is a form of grey fungus that is actually beneficial to the flavor of the wine. When affected with noble rot, wine grapes become partially raisined, which greatly increases their sugar content. 

Gewürztraminer wines harvested late will take on notes of sweet pineapple as opposed to lychee, while those harvested early will lose out on the strong aromas altogether and take on acidic grapefruit qualities. 

As you can see, the time of harvest can greatly affect the flavor and sweetness of this versatile white wine, so Gewürztraminer wine’s characteristics can be altered easily by winemakers who dare to dabble in this difficult yet delicious varietal. 

What style of white wine is Gewürztraminer?

Gewürztraminer wine can be made in just about any style from dry to sweet. As you have already read, it can even be a dessert wine! 

Although many people assume Gewürztraminer is a sweet wine, it is often made in a dry or off-dry style, with just a touch of residual sugar. It’s the aroma that is the culprit for its perceived sweetness. 

Even dry white wine Gewürztraminer can appear sweeter than it is because of its beautiful nose of garden rose, lychee, and honeysuckle. These bold aromatics, along with the low acidity and high alcohol content, can make the wine seem a bit less dry. 

But a whole depth and range of varieties can be achieved with Gewürztraminer wine since it is so transparent to its terroir. Gewürztraminer grapes respond strongly to well-drained soils with high mineral content, and the taste can vary greatly from region to region. 

The weather also plays a great role in the sweetness of white wine Gewürztraminer. Warmer climates will produce sweeter styles, while cooler climates create drier, crisper varieties. 

Being a Gewürztraminer winemaker requires a lot of skill and knowledge. Harvesting too early could create bitterness and snuff out the dazzling aromas for which the wine is best known. But harvesting too late can create an unpalatable syrup. 

The white wine Gewürztraminer is all about balance.

But how does one balance this bold wine at home – specifically with food? 

How best to enjoy your white wine Gewürztraminer 

You’ll remember that Gewürztraminer grapes like the cold – and that’s exactly what you should give them. 

Some Gewürztraminer wines are even categorized as “ice wines,” which refer to grapes that were picked while frozen. But that doesn’t mean you should serve the wine itself when it’s that cold. To properly balance the inherent sweetness in even a dry white wine Gewürztraminer, it’s best to serve chilled. 

Gewürztraminer is best enjoyed in a white aromatics glass, the kind also used for Rieslings and Zinfandels. The slight tapering of this glass will help the wine hit your taste buds in the perfect way to relish its depth of fruity, spicy flavors. However, if you don’t have this specific glass, any white wine glass will do. 

As with many white wines, Gewürztraminer is best enjoyed young, though some varieties from specific wineries can age for up to seven years. The aroma and flavor of Gewürztraminer wine will be absolutely perfect from the day of purchase, and so, we suggest you dig right in! 

Without further ado, let’s look at the best Gewürztraminer pairings, so you can get the most out of this showstopper of a wine.

On the table: the 7 best Gewürztraminer pairings 

The Gewürztraminer wine is not to be underestimated in its pairing potential. 

This white wine can even battle it out with many a red when it comes to meat pairings.

As it is undeniably fragrant itself, white wine Gewürztraminer works extremely well with fragrant and spicy foods especially if it is a dry, off-dry, or medium dry wine. But, a sweet Gewürztraminer can be just as agreeable with dessert. 

From Thanksgiving dinner, to summer brunch, let’s take a look at some of the best pairings for this surprisingly versatile little wine.

Spicy Foods

Gewürztraminer provides a perfect marriage with the flavors of Indian, Asian, North African, and Latin American cuisine. Try pairing this punchy white up against spicy Schezwan dishes, Thai curries with coriander and lemongrass, Korean fried chicken, or Moroccan chicken.

A dry or off-dry Gewürztraminer will work particularly well with these spicy, powerful dishes, but even a sweeter Gewurztraminer’s delicately spiced fruit can work well with curries and tagines. 

Meats

You can almost treat a dry white wine Gewürztraminer like you would a red wine. This chameleon of a beverage can pair beautifully with a multitude of proteins, including chicken, pork, bacon, duck, crab, shrimp, turkey, and lamb. 

It lends itself especially well in dishes that combine meat with dried fruits, such as a lamb and dried apricot tagine. 

Cheeses

Cheese pairs well with every style of Gewürztraminer from dry to sweet. Of course, Alsatian Munster pairs perfectly with Alsatian Gewürztraminer, but this exotic white wine also plays well with Gouda, Stilton, Roquefort, and other soft cow’s milk cheeses. 

Steer away from stinky cheeses. Opt instead for ones with light, delicate flavors to let the Gewürztraminer shine. If it’s a cheese you might pair with a Port, it will pair well with a Gewürztraminer. 

Spices and herbs 

Because Gewürztraminer has spiced notes of cinnamon, ginger, and allspice, it pairs exceedingly well with foods of the same ilk. Try your white wine Gewürztraminer with dishes flavored by aromatic herbs and spices such as cumin, clove, cinnamon, turmeric, shallot, sesame, almond, allspice, rose water, bay leaf, kaffir lime, coriander or cayenne pepper. 

Vegetarian dishes 

Gewürztraminer isn’t just for meat eaters. 

This versatile white is great for playing off the natural sweetness in roasted veggies, especially eggplant, bell pepper, red onion, squash, and carrot. Gewürztraminer even pairs well with artichoke, a notoriously difficult food to pair with wines. 

It’s even awesome while watching a movie with popcorn dusted in truffle salt and butter — or on a cold winter evening with fresh roasted chestnuts. Trust us, they are divine pairings!

Brunch 

While Gewürztraminer shines during a hearty dinner, it is equally ideal as a brunch wine. Its lychee notes and fruity sweetness make it a wonderful companion to waffles, pancakes, quiches, and fruit salads.  

Desserts

If you get yourself a sweet, late harvest Gewürztraminer, it will be the perfect dessert wine. We cannot think of a better pairing than pumpkin pie, as the wine itself has pumpkin pie spice flavors. However, it goes great with many fruity, nutty, or cinnamon-y desserts too, from apple strudel to baklava to fruit tarts. 

Gewürztraminer can even be a delightful dessert on its own – and is a refreshing sipping beverage on a hot summer day. 

Finding the perfect white wine Gewürztraminer 

Even though Gewürztraminer works for a whole variety of foods – and pleases a whole variety of wine drinkers from red to white and dry to sweet – it does NOT grow in a variety of regions. In fact, there are 30 vines of Cabernet Sauvignon for every vine of Gewürztraminer, making it rare indeed. 

There are only about 20,000 acres of Gewürztraminer vineyard in the entire world. This can make a good Gewürztraminer wine a bit difficult to track down, especially when most white wine Gewürztraminer found in stores is lower in quality and quite sweet. 

If you are looking for a high-quality Gewürztraminer, or the best Dry Gewürztraminer wine, it’s best to stick to smaller producers in specialty wine stores, or look up specific vineyards online, such as our own Halleck Vineyard. 

Look for vineyards in the Alsace region of France, Sonoma and Monterey Counties of California, or the Clare Valley area of Australia to help narrow your search.

For those who have not yet tried this alluring and sought-after wine, there will be a thrill to the chase and a delight to the first enveloping waft of its mesmerizing scent. 

Indeed, there are some true gems of Gewürztraminer wine out there just waiting to be discovered. And we hope you take absolute joy in discovering them for yourself. 

India had also been a British Colony, a relatively short hop across the Indian Ocean. As part of the British Empire, Indian businessmen were the “merchant class” in Kenya. They owned businesses, real estate and restaurants along-side their British and colonial counterparts.

I was first introduced to Indian food in Kenya. Coming from the Midwest, where Italian was considered ethnic food, I couldn’t believe such a party could happen in your mouth! I fell in love with the wild and exotic flavors of Indian food. It was there I was introduced to Alsatian AOC, served not as a beverage, but as a chutney, with Indian cuisine. The flavors were explosive together!

The British have always had a love affair with French wines. This carried across the British Empire. Gewurztraminer is the grape varietal that contributes to Alsatian AOC. Alsace, France, bordering Germany, make their white wines from Gewurztraminer. Like all wines in France, it is named for place rather than grape; there is both Alsatian AOC or Alsatian Grand Cru AOC. These designations also apply to Riesling in Alsace. Gewurztraminer is made “dry” in Alsace, with little or no residual sugar.

Returning to the US in the 1970s, one could not find Indian food for love or money. But I found an Indian woman in San Francisco teaching cooking from her apartment. I took her classes for 6 weeks. I still cook Indian food to this day.

When we began making wine, I wanted to make a wine to go with my Indian food. Gewurztraminer was the obvious choice. But our distributors at that time told me I was crazy. First, they said, nobody eats Indian food. Furthermore, they emphasized, no one even knows how to pronounce Gewurztraminer! Wine is already so intimidating to most, if one is on the list that guests cannot pronounce, they’ll never order it.

We made it anyway. Our first release was in 2004. And it’s our first wine to sell out every year by November. It happens to be phenomenal with Thanksgiving turkey!

This vintage offers astounding fruit and minerality. Crisp, Refreshing!

The expressive nose is full of ripe lychee, rose petals and a hint of honeysuckle. There are bright crisp acids that blend with minerality on the mid-palate, offering flavors of lychee, rose petals, spice, and a touch of ginger. The finish lingers and cleanses with notes of fine spice.

Not only does it go great with Indian food and turkey, it’s phenomenal with roasted chestnuts, Gorgonzola cheese, truffle salted popcorn cuddled up for a movie. We invite you to join us and try our award winning Gerwurztraminer at a Sonoma wine tasting.