Traminer
Traminer is the parent of the more familiar Gewurztraminer white wine variety. It is thought, through DNA testing that Gewurztraminer is a mutation or clone of Traminer. Next to the Muscat family of grapes it is the most ancient grapes still in cultivation. While, one would think it is of German origin, Traminer is derived from the Tyrol village, Tramin, located in Italy.
The grape does not do well in hotter climates, and although it ripens quickly, it requires longer maturation time than most grapes. It is very common to the Mosel Valley of Germany where it is grown on steep river banks. The grapes give off a pleasant rose petal smell throughout the region.
In March, we have a Limited Edition Traminer Spatlese. The Spatlese is the German word for late harvest. The grapes are allowed to stay on the vine for an extra week after normal harvest to increase sugar content. This does not result in higher alcohol, rather a slight off-dry finish. The wine from Traminer Spatlese is very aromatic, with flavours of lychee, tropical fruit and rose petals. If you would like more information on this wine, view a video at
http://videos.winexpert.com/video/27475985