The Traminer grape is one of Austria's foundational grape varieties, sharing genetic roots with many popular varieties and, notably, standing as the parent grape to the country's iconic Grüner Veltliner.
Known for its low acidity, rich aromas, and excellent ageing potential, Traminer exists in three primary forms: Roter Traminer, Gelber Traminer, and Gewürztraminer. Each has distinctive characteristics that resonate with terroir and tradition across Austrian wine regions.
Origins and Historical Significance
Believed to have originated from southeastern Europe, Traminer boasts an ancient history. It is one of the oldest European grape varieties, potentially cultivated by the Romans and referred to in Latin as Vitis aminera. Traminer takes its name from the South Tyrolean town of Tramin, a historical hub for wine trading in the Middle Ages. The name and the grape variety spread throughout Europe, solidifying Traminer's influence in vineyards from Austria to the Mediterranean and beyond.
The Three Types of Traminer
The Traminer grape family is composed of three main varieties, each distinguished by the color of its berries and subtle flavor distinctions:
- Roter Traminer: This red-skinned variety has a delicate yet complex aroma profile, contributing to wines with distinctive spiciness and depth.
- Gewürztraminer: Known for its light red or pink berries, Gewürztraminer is the most aromatic of the three, often exuding notes of rose petal, citrus, and lychee.
- Gelber Traminer: The yellow-skinned variant brings more subtle floral and fruit notes, showcasing the essence of the terroir and often used in the creation of wines with greater finesse and elegance.
Although each Traminer type has a unique character, they can all be broadly referred to as Gewürztraminer due to the shared spiciness ("Gewürz" in German) of their aromatic profiles.
Traminer's Influence in Austrian Wine
Today, Traminer grapes are cultivated across Austrian wine regions, most prominently in Vulkanland Steiermark and the wine town of Klöch in Südoststeiermark. Despite its ancient heritage and versatility, Traminer is grown on relatively small parcels throughout Austria, with the total area under cultivation decreasing slightly in recent years. Here’s a breakdown of Traminer plantings in Austria:
- Niederösterreich (Lower Austria): 106 hectares (40.27%), with major vineyards in Weinviertel (58 ha), Thermenregion (14 ha), Wagram (10 ha), Kremstal (9 ha), Kamptal (7 ha), Traisental (2.5 ha), Wachau (2.5 ha), and Carnuntum (1.6 ha).
- Burgenland: 83 hectares (31.51%)
- Steiermark (Styria): 65 hectares (24.88%)
- Wien (Vienna): 5 hectares (2.00%)
- Other regions: 4 hectares (1.34%)
Unique Characteristics and Winemaking
Traminer wines are particularly low in acidity, making them an excellent choice for consumers seeking softer, more approachable wines. They are rich in extract and aroma, often presenting a bouquet of roses, wild strawberries, citrus, raisins, and dried fruits. The wines are known for their impressive ageing potential, allowing the complex flavors to develop gracefully over time. Austrian Traminer wines often lean toward Prädikatswein styles, with residual sweetness balanced by a harmonious touch of acerbity, making them popular choices for those who enjoy dessert wines or nuanced aromatic whites.
Wine Tasting
- Weingut Steininger, Traminer Reserve Sekt 2021: The wine presents itself in a light golden yellow color with glimmering silver reflections, signaling its freshness and appeal. On the nose, it unveils delicate aromas of rose oil, complemented by enticing notes of passion fruit and pineapple that create an inviting and exotic bouquet. wine is juicy and elegantly structured, with ripe yellow tropical fruits gracing the palate. A fine acidity balances its richness, while a subtle mineral undertone adds depth and intrigue. With its aromatic profile and balanced complexity, it’s an exceptional choice for both food pairings and special occasions.
- Domäne Wachau, Red (Roter) Traminer 2023: It captivates with its enticing aromas of honeysuckle, sunflower, apricot blossom, and Chinese pear. On the palate, it reveals a spicy and lively character, boasting a strong yet elegant body. The finish is long and harmonious, featuring integrated fruit sweetness alongside delicate hints of elderberry blossoms and wild roses.
- Weingut Steininger, Traminer Trockenbeerenauslese 2018: On the nose, an enticing blend of dried fruits immediately greets you, interwoven with vibrant notes of mandarin and apricot. There’s a subtle suggestion of lychee, adding an exotic touch to the aromatic profile. The wine's entry is full-bodied and luscious, revealing flavors of dried fruits and dates that provide a natural sweetness. This complex flavor profile is balanced by a well-integrated acidity that keeps the wine lively and harmonious.
Traminer's Enduring Legacy
While Traminer is cultivated worldwide, it remains deeply rooted in Austrian viticulture. Though vineyards dedicated to Traminer have shrunk over time, the grape remains celebrated in Austrian wine culture, particularly in regions like Vulkanland Steiermark, where it thrives in the volcanic soils and climate. The grape’s genetic influence also continues in the form of Grüner Veltliner and other natural crossings, ensuring that Traminer’s impact will persist as both a cherished grape and a vital ancestor in Austrian and global winemaking.
Whether enjoyed as a crisp, slightly sweet Prädikatswein or a richly aromatic Gewürztraminer, the wines produced from Traminer grapes offer a taste of Austria’s winemaking heritage, a tradition that dates back centuries and continues to captivate wine enthusiasts today.
Source: Austrian Wine Marketing