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Gewurztraminer Grapes

Gewurztraminer grapes are a variety of White Wine Grape which is best grown in the Alsace region of France. Although, Germany and America have had some success growing Gewurztraminer grapes as well. (see also German Riesling) Gewurztraminer grapes are pale green and are sometimes criticized because some people say that they tend to make a wine that is hardly scented at all and that is less appealing than wines made from other Types of Wine Grapes.

Gewurztraminer grapes prefer cooler climates and the Alsace region is perfect being the second most northerly appellation in France. California is another excellent location for growing Gewurztraminer grapes and some of their cooler northern vineyards produce some stunning Gewurztraminer Wines. (see also Napa Merlot and Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon)

While Gewurztraminer grapes are prized for their wines, their vines can be despised for their difficulty to grow. They tend to bud early in the spring and are therefore very susceptible to damage from frost. Gewurztraminer vines also have weak defences against viral vine infections and even the healthiest of vines are not very productive, producing only small clusters of Gewurztraminer grapes. Unfortunately, this has caused many vineyards to over crop. Over cropping results in dilute, lightweight Gewurztraminer wines.

Gewurztraminer grapes have thick tough skins and can have high sugar levels of amazing concentration. This in turn leads to high alcohol levels especially in dry wines. Close monitoring of the Gewurztraminer grapes is necessary and precise harvesting is critical. Early picking of Gewurztraminer grapes causes them to retain too much acid and pleasant results from Gewurztraminer grapes are virtually impossible in warmer climates.

Gewurztraminer grapes from California and the Alsace region in France produce the best Gewurztraminer wines and this is mainly due to the excellent climatic conditions of these two areas. (see also History of Gewurztraminer) The dark pink color of Gewurztraminer grapes produces wines that range in color from light to dark golden yellow with a copper tone although this will depend upon the fruit's ripeness. Gewurztraminer wines are full bodied and they have a slight tendency to bitterness. Gewurztraminer grapes can also be made into excellent dessert wines. (see also Gewurztraminer Wine Recommendations)

Are you interested in growing your own grapes at home? If so, I can personally recommend this book by Danie Wium. I recently began growing my own grapes for use in winemaking and this book was an invaluable tool along the way.