So this week I take a step back from the teacher view and talk about a subject people don’t think much about…three grapes from Germany that are not Riesling! I know most people think sweet when they think German, but it does not have to be.  The trick for some is to remember that fruit, not sugar, can make wine seem sweet.

The first wine being Gewürztraminer, a fruity and yet spicy wine that comes from Germany.  The flavor profile is of peach, kiwi, and smoky minerality with ginseng.  One of my favorites we carry at ABC is Valckenberg.  This wine is something to enjoy with spicy food…think Creole or Asian!  If you like spice, come try this with whatever you enjoy.

The second is another white wine from Valckenberg:  Pinot Blanc.  This is a newer bottle that ABC is carrying.  Valckenberg, one of Germany’s best wine merchants, also has a winery and is a producer. This Pinot Blanc is a bright and fresh rendition of that variety. Dry, clean and focused, it has good weight and an appealing, slightly bitter finish. It is great for summertime sipping or pairing with a bowl of steamed clams.

With the third wine, we are going to go red.  Yes, I said red…Dornfelder! This is a red with something really different to show.  This grape has ample levels of rich, fruity black cherry and spice.  This is also a red that is great with a little chill and a bit of residual sugar for those who want a little sweet but not too much.  Again, the producer is Valckenberg.

So I think what I am trying to say is…go talk to your wine consultant about Valckenberg wines that are not Riesling but ARE German.  They are easy to drink, lower alcohol, fruity, and they all have a great price. Come see us soon…

Kathleen Anderson, North/West FL Wine Supervisor. Follow me on Twitter @abcwinekat.