2019 Gramona Gessami

Penedes, Spain

Gramona Gessami is a beautifully aromatic white wine gem from the Penedes region of northeast Spain. The Penedes is located only 45 minutes from Barcelona along the Mediterranean coast. The region is best known for Cava, the Spanish sparkling wine, but also produces excellent white and red wines. Likewise, Gramona is best known as one of the last remaining family-owned Cava producers. Its history in Penedes dates to 1816. Gessami, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat d'Alexandria, Muscat Frontignan and Gewurztraminer, proves the winery's skill in making a superb white wine. Certified organic (CCPAE)

What strikes many as an usual blend is fairly common in Penedes – aromatic whites made from a mix of “northern” and indigenous varieties. In the case of Gessami, it is a blend of the native Muscat (both Frontignan and d’Alexandrie are grown by Gramona), and the non-native but heat-tolerant Gewürztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc. Well over half of the cuvée is Sauvignon Blanc, which provides both the body and acidity and, depending on the vintage, either one or both varieties of Muscat are used in addition to a small proportion of Gewürztraminer to boost the aromatics. Such a floral and alluring wine is fittingly named Gessami, which in English means Jasmine.

Gramona Gessami is bright straw-yellow in color with a wonderfully aromatic nose of apricots, pears, citrus, jasmine and mineral notes. Light-medium in body with bright acidity, the wine offers clean flavors of pears, peaches, and spice, with no oak. It is well balanced to enjoy in its youth. The wine is long and smooth on the finish, with lingering floral notes.

Enjoy Gramona Gessami as a summertime aperitif wine and to accompany grilled shrimp, baked halibut, chicken salad and spicy Asian dishes.