Winemaker’s Tasting Notes
Our 2006 Gewürztraminer hails from the Carranza Mesa block of our estate in the Santa Ynez Valley. Here, the elevated terrain’s well-drained soils encourage flavor intensity while coastal breezes nurture the varietal’s distinctive qualities. The 2006 vintage begins with pure aromas of lilac, tangerine and grapefruit zest. A beautifully weighted palate offers tangy flavors of pear, Mandarin orange and litchi with a hint of spice. Quenching citrus notes balance nicely with hint of sweetness on a clean, refreshing finish.
Kevin Willenborg, Winemaker
Winemaking
A cool spring was followed by a warm July, which exerted beneficial stress and vigor control early in the grape maturation period. A moderate fall allowed for longer hang time and excellent flavor development with spice retention. The grapes were harvested during the early morning hours of September 28. Inert gas was employed as a buffer to prevent oxidation from destemming through crushing. The wine was cold fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve the varietal’s complex aromatics and bright fruit flavors.
Cuisine Pairing
The 2006 Gewürztraminer is a versatile food wine, appealing to everything from salads to white meats to spicy ethnic cuisine. Recommended pairings include Thai vegetables in spicy sweet coconut sauce, roast citrus turkey with herbs, angel hair pasta with smoked salmon, and Tandoori chicken.
Varietal Composition
Gewürztraminer 100%
Duration of Aging
6 months in stainless steel
Final Analysis
Alcohol 13%
TA .75
pH 3.23
RS .50
Suggested Retail
$13.00/bottle
About Our Firestone Vineyard Estate
The Firestone Vineyard estate is uniquely situated on a series of rocky mesas in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. Here, well-drained soils and an extended growing season contribute to the ripening of exquisitely balanced and flavorful grapes. The imprint of our estate is integral to the character and individuality of each Firestone Vineyard wine. |
