What Kind of Wine Is Fetzer Gewürztraminer?
A crisp, delicate white that exhibits a rosy hue, Fetzer Gewurztraminer shines brightly with a refreshing floral palate. The Gewurztraminer grape, considered a rarity in the world of winemaking, provides a decadent flavor, a sweet perfume bouquet from the white while also yielding a distinct pink tone. This wine hails from the wine regions of Austria and Germany. And now, Fetzer has become accomplished in cultivating this grape to the highest quality in California. This grape flourishes in the cold climate and captivates the signature flavors and scents of this rare wine.
Fetzer Gewurztraminer wine has been praised for its unique palate not found in many other whites. This may lead many to believe that Fetzer Gewurztraminer price tag is great. However, despite its great flavor, it has an even more delectably economical price. Suppose you are not familiar with the Gewurztraminer. In that case, my review is perfect for you, and soon you too will be a fan of this variety.
Fetzer Shaly Loam Gewürztraminer Review
- Winery — Fetzer
- Country/Region — United States, California, Monterey County
- Type — Californian Gewürztraminer
- Aroma — Lychee, Mango, Rose-petal
- Grapes — Gewürztraminer
- Taste — Bright, Mango, Ginger, Cinnamon
- Alcohol Content — 12%
- Sugar — Off-Dry
- Pairing — White Meats, Spicy Dishes, Fruity Desserts
Fetzer Gewürztraminer has truly honored this rare grape by enhancing the luxurious floral notes and tropical fruit flavors. Although an economical wine, it doesn’t cheap out on the high-quality grape and production of this white. For this, they have become an accessible wine to all and allow even the biggest wine enthusiasts to fall in love with this bottle.
In addition to this wine’s versatile and sophisticated flavors, the vineyard became renowned for its sustainable and ethical farming. I would highly recommend this wine with all this in mind; enjoy it at casual events or elegant parties. You will not be disappointed.
Tasting Notes
A full-bodied white with a bright and well-rounded mouthfeel, Fetzer Gewurztraminer is an off-dry wine that gives way to a lush, buttery texture. This delicate sensation brings together a nuance of sophistication yet remains approachable. It is a welcoming wine that creates a relaxed, friendly environment so it can be enjoyed at most casual events. It is perfectly suited for summer evenings around a BBQ, for example. Due to this wine’s versatility, marked by the palette of stone fruits and hints of spicy flavors, this white can also be enjoyed on more extravagant evenings.
Appearance
While deemed a white wine, Fetzer Gewurztraminer’s appearance has an unusual pink hue captivated in that distinctive bottle. This flushed color is created by using the pink-skinned grapes, and once poured into a glass, reveals a bright lemony tone. When the wine has settled, the color becomes a rich honey gold.
Aroma
This wine’s aromatic profile is distinctive and often commended for the unique aromatic descriptors that are evident. The lightness and perfume of this profile softly layer the scents. The notes of tropical fruits such as lychee and mango hit the nose first. These scents add a youthful, fresh perfume to the white wine. These clean, sweet notes are highlighted by the smell of rose water. It is like the smell of Turkish delight on the nose. Notes of ginger and cinnamon add a layer of spice to the wine, creating a perfect balance of spicy-sweet in the white wine.
Taste
Evoking a fresh, delicate sensation with a slight touch of sweetness, the taste rounds in the mouth. Fetzer Gewurztraminer is a refined blend of well-balanced flavors. The soft sweetness from the off-dryness of this wine offsets flavors of pineapple, peach, and honey. These sweet notes marry the structured palate of the savory notes and deliver flavors of ginger, cashew nuts, and a hint of pastries. These flavors enhance the wine’s texture, which is almost oily in texture thanks to the wine’s low acidity. Sipping on this wine will bring back memories of a warm summer’s evening.
Finish
With a lasting finish that cuts through with a youthful, light mouthfeel, this wine’s notes linger long after the last sip. This is a wine that is finely balanced with notes of fruit and spice. Indeed, a wine that is easy to drink. However, it is best to be savored, allowing your mouth to detect each distinct flavor. The slight acidity balances the subtle sweetness of this white, giving it a distinctive character that rounds in your mouth. The slightly oily texture completes the finishing of this wine, leaving your palate clean and refreshed.
Rating
I have a high standard for white wines and believe that you have to spend more on a bottle of white to obtain a well-structured, flavorsome wine. This wine, however, has forced me to change that belief. Although an economical wine, Fetzer Gewürztraminer produces a top-quality white. The grape, which is rare, yields elegant floral notes, tropical fruits, and spicy flavors. Bursting with flavor that suits all taste buds, this brand has certainly won me over to economical white wines, both for the flavor and the price.
On top of that, Fetzer Gewürztraminer is highly praised for its sustainable farming practices. Fetzer is committed to creating sustainable vineyards that yield organic grapes by investing in eco-friendly technology. So, while you’re drinking this gorgeous white, you can rest at ease knowing this wine is eco-friendly and sustainable. Even Ergo Rioja reviews are exceptionally good for such an affordable, everyday drinking wine.
Fetzer Gewürztraminer Food Pairing
My review states that this white is an extremely versatile white, which allows it to be paired with an array of different dishes. The complex layers that consist of spicy-sweet flavors will enhance Asian Cuisine, in particular. The fresh finish of this white will cut through spicy foods such as Chilli’s and Pad Thai, and enhance each distinct flavor while simultaneously refreshing your palate.
As a white, it is divine with white meat such as pork and fish, which is often served with a sweet sauce. The combination of savory and sweet dishes will sharpen the unique flavors of this wine. Fetzer Gewürztraminer’s delicately lush, fruit-forward flavors mean that this wine goes well with sweet desserts such as panna cotta and bread pudding with apples, prunes, and walnuts. For any meal, this wine is approachable and delectable to drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Makes Fetzer Gewürztraminer?
This wine was the brainchild of Barney Fetzer in the late 1960’s. He centered winemaking on ethical farming practices. Starting his winemaking in an old barn on his family’s property, he has had unbelievable success. Although this wine is from humble beginnings, and a relatively new winemaking company compared to others within the US, the Fetzer label thrived and has become a multi-million dollar wine empire.
From the 1980’s Fetzer vineyards began to invest in sustainable farming and has since gained a reputation for protecting the environment. This vineyard produces high-quality organic grapes leading to healthier wines, brimming with flavor. In 1992, the company was taken over by the famed Concha y Toro, who continue to honor the legacy of this Fetzer winery.
How Is Fetzer Gewürztraminer Made?
The Gewürztraminer grape is harvested in late August as the area is often prone to frost. However, this grape is also temperamental when it comes to warmth, so it prefers cooler climates. For this reason, Fetzer vineyards are dedicated to harvesting the grape at its peak to provide full flavors and maintain its famous floral scent.
Once harvested, the grapes go through a destemming machine that gently cracks the grapes open. The ingredients of sulfur dioxide gas are added to remove any native yeast on the grape. Immediately after that, they are pressed to remove the pink skin, and the juice is fermented. Fermentation of this white wine requires the addition of yeast, and it is allowed to ferment for up to 2 weeks. Fetzer Gewürztraminer wine is then aged in stainless steel tanks, which maintains the wine’s natural flavors and aroma.
Where Is Fetzer Gewürztraminer Made?
The grape now flourishes in Monterey County due to its cold and windy climate. As it sits in a deep ocean canyon that allows fog to be funneled through and provides crisp cold water, the growing season is one of the longest in the world. This cool climate is perfect for producing high-quality white grapes. The soil here mostly consists of sandy loam and gravel which is where Fetzer Shaly Loam Gewürztraminer gets its name. The loam soil is highly fertile, adding vigor to the vines and providing rich flavors.
How to Serve Fetzer Gewürztraminer?
As a white wine, it needs to be chilled before being opened. Due to the floral fragrance of this wine, it is served best at a temperature of 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (12 to 15 degrees Celius) to enhance the delicate flavors. A decanter is recommended when serving this wine to improve the notes and aromas further. It should be served in a long-stemmed glass, filling it one-third of the way. After opening, it should be resealed and returned to the refrigerator. As this is a low acidic wine, it can last to three-four days before oxidation takes place.
How Much Does Fetzer Gewürztraminer Cost?
Although it is a wine brimming with flavor and a high-quality grape, Fetzer Gewürztraminer is an extremely economical and affordable wine. Ranging from $6.00 to $9.00. This wine allows you to enjoy an elegant palate without breaking the bank.
How Long Does Fetzer Gewürztraminer Last?
This white ideally should be consumed at its young age within 1 to 2 years of being produced. Consuming this white within this time frame will allow you to enjoy the lush, vibrant flavors this wine has to offer. Past this date, it may lose its flavor and aroma intensity that it is famous for. Typical for all whites, this wine should be stored in a cool place around 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (12 to 15 degrees Celsius). If you do not have a wine cooler available, then a refrigerator will suffice. As it is sensitive to light, avoid storing it in an area with direct sunlight to prevent color and flavor tainting.
How Many Calories Does Fetzer Gewürztraminer Have?
Fetzer Gewürztraminer calories count up to 100 per serving, 5oz, which is ideal for those who are health conscious but still looking to enjoy a fresh glass of wine. Per bottle, the total calorie intake is 600 calories with a breakdown of 3 grams of carbohydrates, 0% protein, and 0% fat. Fetzer Gewürztraminer alcohol content is approximately 12% ABV making it a delicious medium-bodied white.
Conclusion
Fetzer Gewürztraminer has truly honored this rare grape by enhancing the luxurious floral notes and tropical fruit flavors. Although an economical wine, it doesn’t cheap out on the high-quality grape and production of this white. For this, they have become an accessible wine to all and allow even the biggest wine enthusiasts to fall in love with this bottle.
In addition to this wine’s versatile and sophisticated flavors, the vineyard became renowned for its sustainable and ethical farming. I would highly recommend this wine with all this in mind; enjoy it at casual events or elegant parties. You will not be disappointed.
