Varietal Guide
Gewurztraminer
Reviewed by Morgan Dannels, Head Sommelier · Last updated May 14, 2026
Sip Tip
Gewurztraminer owes its intensely floral, lychee-like aroma to unusually high levels of a compound called geraniol and a terpene called linalool, the same molecule responsible for the scent of lavender.
Gewürztraminer is one of the most polarizing grapes in wine. It's loud, perfumed, and full-bodied, with aromas so intense they announce themselves immediately. Rose petals, lychee, ginger, orange blossom: this isn't a subtle experience.
Alsace produces the real thing: dry to medium styles with high alcohol and restrained acidity that produce a plush, rounded mouthfeel. New Zealand is earning recognition for its versions, while Australian winemakers sometimes blend it with Riesling to produce fruity whites with a touch of sweetness. Most bottles are meant to drink young, though some Alsatian examples develop honeyed, nutty character over time.
What does Gewurztraminer taste like?
This is a weighty wine with soft acid levels and plenty of alcohol, giving an impression of softness and heft. The aromatics dominate: floral notes like rose and orange blossom, stone and tropical fruit (think lychee and peach), plus warm, musky spice. The grape produces wines that range from dry to medium, though the color can run deeper than many white wines. Drink most bottles while they're young and showing bright fruit, but some age-worthy Alsatian bottlings take on honeyed, nutty notes as they mature.
What food pairs with Gewurztraminer?
Gewürztraminer excels with aromatic Asian cooking, from fragrant Thai dishes to Chinese preparations with warm spice to Indian food built on ginger and fresh herbs. The wine's tropical fruit and spice echo what's on the plate. It's also a classic pairing for foie gras, smoked salmon, and pungent cheeses like Munster.
- •Fragrant Thai dishes
- •Foie gras
- •Pungent cheeses like Munster
How to serve Gewurztraminer
- 1.Most Gewurztraminer is meant to drink within a few years of release while the fruit is fresh.
- 2.Some Alsatian examples can age and develop honey and nut complexity, but don't assume every bottle will improve.
- 3.This grape polarizes drinkers, so confirm your guest enjoys intensely aromatic wines before you recommend it.
- 4.Avoid generic American commercial versions, which tend to be light, sweetish, and insipid compared to Alsace.
- 5.The low acidity means it won't refresh the palate the way Riesling does, so pair accordingly.