Uncorked

Grape's long name is as memorable as the wine

Gewurztraminer is another of those grapes I fall in love with again and again after each taste, especially when paired with food.

We hear it a lot in wine speak when it comes to certain grapes: "If Riesling is a bit of a misfit, then likely Gewurztraminer is a downright outcast." This sums up perceptions of this intriguing and delightful grape, but sadly it's one of the world's best wine gems consumers continue to pass by.

The wine world and connoisseurs sometimes get a little frustrated with Gewurztraminer because the nose and taste are too obvious -- like a glass filled with the aroma of rose petals. But my taste buds adore this wine and have no criticisms or frustrations. My loyalty began when I first tasted it with Indian cuisine, and my devotion will last forever.

The amazing and intriguing distinction of Gewurztraminer is that its aroma leads you to believe you are about to indulge in a sweet, luscious wine, but when you taste it, it is often delightfully and surprisingly bone-dry. This chameleon grape can be produced in the winery as very dry, sweet or even luscious wine.

The Values

2017 Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer, Washington (about $11 retail)

2017 Fetzer Gewurztraminer, California (about $10 retail)

2017 Chateau St. Jean Gewurztraminer, California (about $16 retail)

2017 Montinore Gewurztraminer, California (about $14 retail)

2017 Brancott Gewurztraminer, New Zealand (about $15 retail)

2017 Bouchaine Gewurztraminer, California (about $25 retail)

The Splurges

2017 Balletto Gewurztraminer, California (about $22 retail)

2016 Hugel Alsace Gewurztraminer, France (about $29 retail)

2016 Gundlach Bundschu Gewurztraminer, California (about $20 retail)

2016 Trimbach Gewurztraminer, France (about $30 retail

Lorri Hambuchen is a member of London's Institute of Wines and Spirits. Contact her at the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, P.O. Box 2221, Little Rock, Ark. 72203, or email:

uncorked@thewinecenter.com

Food on 09/19/2018

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