Gewurztraminer

While ‘Gewürz’ translates to spice or herb in German, this white grape with pink skin actually produces a very sweet style of wine. Originating from Germany and Northern Italy, this grape thrives in a cooler climate. A Gewürztraminer can be produced in various styles that range from dry to sweet, however, in New Zealand this style is typically created in a dry to off-dry style.

Currently in New Zealand, the production of this wine style is on the smaller side, although in this instance it is definitely quality over quantity. A Gewürztraminer usually has a powerful lychee aroma on the nose, along with floral, peach and rose petal characteristics. This wine has low tannins followed by a smooth full bodied texture on the palate, the Gewürztraminer style pairs incredibly well with spicy Thai or Indian dishes.

Notable regions that produce this wine in New Zealand include Marlborough, Hawke's Bay and Gisborne. The Johanneshof Cellars of Marlborough produce an award winning Gewürztraminer, this delivers aromas of spice and sandalwood, followed with hints of rosewater and a gentle sweetness. Whereas the Hawkes Bay winery of Stonecroft produces a fuller-bodied Gewürztraminer with notes of stone fruit, sweet citrus and ginger spice. This is a fantastic white wine to start with if you are looking to explore the world of wine.