Wines Alsace Gewurztraminer - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The 2021 Gewurztraminer from Alsace is a captivating white wine distinguished by its luscious off-dry style and certified organic production. Gewurztraminer, as a grape variety, delivers an aromatic intensity unique among white wines, with notes of lychee, rose petals, exotic spices, and hints of ripe tropical fruit. In the 2021 vintage, the wine benefits from a balanced growing season, permitting full aromatic ripeness alongside refreshing acidity. The absence of a declared blend suggests this wine is a varietal expression, allowing the Gewurztraminer’s natural opulence and perfume to take centre stage. The moelleux designation indicates a notable residual sweetness, bringing a charming richness on the palate, typically achieved by harvesting grapes at higher ripeness or through gentle late picking.

Alsace, set in France’s northeastern corridor along the Rhine, is famed for its distinctly aromatic whites and its unique terroir. The region’s cool continental climate, buffered by the Vosges mountains, gives long, sunny autumns that allow aromatic grapes like Gewurztraminer to mature slowly and gracefully. The soils are complex—ranging from granite to limestone to clay—and they contribute to the wine’s fine texture and aromatic clarity. Alsace’s winemaking heritage is a blend of French finesse and a hint of Germanic tradition, emphasising single varietal wines and a rigorous approach to quality.

A moelleux Gewurztraminer shines as a partner to both savoury and sweet dishes. The wine’s natural sweetness and exotic bouquet pair beautifully with richly spiced cuisine—consider Thai green curry, chicken with ginger, or Moroccan tagine. Alsatian fare also complements it well: a classic Munster cheese, foie gras, or even kougelhopf for dessert create outstanding combinations. For a bold match, serve it alongside a blue cheese such as Roquefort.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, at around 8-10°C. This temperature allows the enticing aromatics to flourish, while maintaining a crisp freshness that balances the wine’s sweetness. Enjoy now for its vibrant fruit and perfume, or cellar for a few years to invite honeyed complexity.