Great wine shop owners remember their customers and pay attention to their purchases. On this occasion, I sought a recommendation for something new, offering two (take out) food options: Indian and pizza. The shop owner displayed a mix of intrigue and contemplation, as if wondering, “Which wines in will make the grade?” He then confidently perused his wine shelves and selected the Gramona Gessami from Penedès.
Penedès is revered as one of the premier wine-producing regions in Spain, second only to Rioja. It stands as one of Europe’s oldest viticultural areas, renowned for its cava but also producing exceptional white wines from native grapes such as Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo.
This wine is an intriguing blend of the indigenous Muscat, along with the heat-resistant Gewürztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc. The majority of the blend is Sauvignon Blanc, lending both body and acidity. Depending on the year, one or both varieties of Muscat are used, with a touch of Gewürztraminer to enhance the aroma.
Tom’s recommendation was spot-on! The Gessami, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat, and Gewürztraminer (all organically grown), was a perfect match for Indian food.
The wine exhibited a pale straw color. Aromas of white jasmine, honey, and peach graced the nose, complemented by good minerality, apricot, and the fresh scent of cut grass from the Sauvignon Blanc. Though the bouquet was rich in fruit, it pleasantly surprised as a dry wine. Delicious and easy to drink, this wine is a fantastic choice for upcoming summer gatherings…and Indian food.
Muscat 50%
Frontignan 35%
de Alexandria 15%
Gewürztraminer 15%
Sauvignon Blanc 35%
$26.