Aromatic Whites: Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Albariño

Question 1

In what type of climate does Gewurztraminer grow best?

Answer 1

Cool to moderate climate

Question 2

What region in the world is most famous for its Gewurztraminer?

Answer 2

Alsace, France

Both Alsace AOP and Alsace Grand Cru AOP make quality Gewurztraminer.

Question 3

Describe the typical profile of Gewurztraminer.

Answer 3

• Full body
• Low to medium acidity
• High alcohol
• Intense floral notes, especially rose
• Stone fruits (peach and apricot)
• Tropical fruits (lychee)
• No oak (to retain floral aromas)

Question 4

What is the sweetness range for Gewurztraminer?

Answer 4

Dry to sweet

Gewurztraminer is always intensely aromatic.

Question 5

Why is Gewurztraminer usually higher in alcohol?

Answer 5

Gewurtraminer acquires very high levels of sugar as it ripens.

Generally, the more sugar there is for yeasts to eat, the more alcohol there will be in the final wine.

Question 6

What 2 white grape varietals are known to be both medium-to-full bodied and floral?

Answer 6

1. Gewurztraminer
2. Viognier

Question 7

What climate does Viognier prefer?

Answer 7

Moderate

Question 8

Which AOC in France is known for its high-quality Viognier?

Answer 8

Condrieu AOC in the Northern Rhône

Question 9

In Condrieu AOC, is Viognier bottled as a single varietal or is it blended?

Answer 9

Always single varietal in Condrieu AOC

Question 10

Is Viognier ever used as a blending grape in areas outside of Condrieu AOC?

Answer 10

Yes

This is because Viognier adds floral aromas, body, and peachy notes to more neutral grapes/wines.

Question 11

Describe the typical profile of Viognier.

Answer 11

• Dry
• Low to medium acidity
• Medium to full body
• High alcohol
• Peach/peach yogurt
• Floral/blossom aromas
• Can be oaked or not oaked

Question 12

What climate does Albariño prefer to grow in?

Answer 12

Moderate

Question 13

Describe the typical profile of Albariño.

Answer 13

• Dry
• Medium body
• High acidity
• Citrus (lemon, grapefruit)
• Stone fruit (peach)
• No oak

Some professionals say Albariño smells like Viognier on the nose but acts like dry Riesling on the palate!

Question 14

Why would Albariño benefit from lees contact?

Answer 14

Lees add a creamy texture to the wine, adding body and balancing Albariño’s naturally high acidity.

Question 15

What is the appellation in Spain that is known for its Albariño?

Answer 15

Rías Baixas DO

(pronounced: REE-ahs BY-shas)

Question 16

Why is Rías Baixas DO well suited to the production of refreshing white wines, such as Albariño?

Answer 16

Rías Baixas DO is close to or on the Altantic Ocean, giving the region cool breezes, plentiful rain and clouds.