3.13 Gewürztraminer, Viognier & Albarino

Question 1

Is Gewürztraminer an aromatic grape?

Answer 1

Yes!

Question 2

In what climate does G thrive?

Answer 2

Cool
Moderate

Question 3

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

Answer 3

Alsace

Question 4

Describe the structure and aroma/flavor profile of G.

Answer 4

• Full body
• Low to medium acid
• High alcohol
• PRONOUNCED floral aromas (rose)
• Stone fruit (peach/apricot)
• Tropical fruit (lychee)
• Un-oaked (to retain floral aromas)

Dry - Sweet

Question 5

Why are Gs usually high in alcohol?

Answer 5

Gewürztraminer acquires very high levels of sugar as it ripens.

Question 6

How are Gewürztraminer and Viognier similar?

Answer 6

They’re both medium to full bodied and floral

Question 7

Is Viognier an aromatic grape?

Answer 7

Yes

Question 8

In what climate does Viognier thrive?

Answer 8

Moderate

Question 9

Describe the aroma/flavor and structure of Viognier

Answer 9

Low - Medium acid
High alcohol
Medium -full body
Floral (blossom)
Stone fruit (peach, apricot)

Question 10

Are Viogniers ever oak aged?

Answer 10

Sometimes yes

Question 11

Which French AOC is known for its high-quality Viognier?

Answer 11

Condrieu AOC (N. Rhone)

Question 12

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

Answer 12

Single varietal

Question 13

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

Answer 13

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

Question 14

Is Albarino an aromatic grape?

Answer 14

Yes

Question 15

In what climate does Albarino thrive?

Answer 15

Moderate

Question 16

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

Answer 16

Rias Baizas DO

a good spot for Albarino since its is close to the Altantic Ocean, giving the region cool breezes, plentiful rain and clouds.

Question 17

Describe the typical profile of Albariño.

Answer 17

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

Some compare Albariño to a cross between Viognier (nose) and dry Riesling (palate)

Question 18

Is lees aging used with Albarino?

Answer 18

Yes.

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

Question 19

Is Albarino age-worthy?

Answer 19

It is generally best drunk young