A common misconception is that it can only be found in Germany, yet it's first appearance was in the Alto Adige region, Northern Italy and it soon moved over to the Alsace, France. What can be said though is that this variety thrives in cooler climates. Therefore, you would think that the wine would contain many characteristics of other cool climate wines - I'm thinking Chablis, with it's flinty, mineral, citrus flavours with a high, refreshing acidity. Yet Gewürztraminer has relatively low acidity, commonly has a much more floral nose and stone fruits such as peach are prominent on your palate.
Gewürz means 'spice' in German, so don't be surprised if you find some ginger notes in the wine too.
Try a New Zealand Gewürztraminer: Villa Maria's (who are celebrating their 50th year of wine making http://www.villamaria.co.nz/) Gewürztraminer Private Bin 2009 which can be bought from numerous places online. This is a very pronounced wine in smell, medium bodied, medium finish, but just exceptional with fish or even on its own. Very good value too.
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