The Alto Adige region of Italy is home to a fairly wide array of grape varieties. However what stands out with conviction are the great aromatic whites the area produces. They also tend to be focused wines of purity and expression, loaded with character that embodies their place. Here’s a look at two current releases of Gewürztraminer.
The Cantina Andriano 2012 Gewürztraminer is a DOC wine from the Alto Adige region of Italy. This offering is composed entirely of Gewürztraminer. The fruit was picked by hand and individual blocks were fermented separately in temperature controlled stainless steel. After spending approximately 6 months on the lees it was bottled. This selection has a suggested retail price of $15.99. The nose of this wine is remarkably fresh and vibrant. As soon as you take a sip, fruity and spicy characteristics kick in. Stone and tropical fruit flavors both play a role and provide good body. Limestone and other minerals are prevalent on the lengthy finish along with a copious amount of spice. This Gewürztraminer is crisp and refreshing. The flavors have depth and complexity but there’s an inherent lightness here that allows this wine to gently envelop your senses. This is a very solid value in Gewürztraminer that will work well with a wide array of foods.
The Cantina Tramin 2012 Nussbaumer Gewürztraminer is a single 
vineyard wine. All of the fruit came from the well regarded DOC Alto Adige Nussbaumer vineyard. The plot of land is in close proximity to Lago di Garda and enjoys breezes from it as a result. After the fruit was picked, fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks. After 8 months of aging it was bottled. A bit more than 5,800 cases were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $22.99. Fruity, floral and spicy are words that describe the inviting nose of this single vineyard Gewürztraminer. The palate here is deep, powerful and loaded with fruit flavors such as apricot and Lychee. A hint of salinity leads the long, lingering and lusty finish which is honeyed and also shows off a treasure trove of minerals. This wine is incredibly delicious and impressive all by itself but is a revelation when paired with spicy foods.
Here are two fine examples of Gewürztraminer each of which represents significant values in their price categories. As importantly they are distinct wines, loaded with varietal character, each showcases one of the many sides this grape has to offer. Both of these wines are well worth seeking out.