If you missed the live episode of Winephabet Street’s this month we talked all about Traminette, Our guest was Michael Migliore, owner and winemaker of Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery. Michael brought 45 years of winemaking expertise to the table, providing invaluable insights into this fascinating grape known for its floral, fruity, and spicy characteristics

What is Traminette?

Traminette is a hybrid grape, a cross between Gewürztraminer and a French-American hybrid. It boasts the aromatic intensity of Gewürztraminer while offering the hardiness and disease resistance of hybrids. Traminette thrives in regions with cooler climates, making it a popular choice in New York’s Hudson Valley and the Midwest.

Key Highlights from the Webinar

The History and Development of Traminette

Michael shared the grape’s unique origin story, developed as a resilient and flavorful alternative to traditional European varieties. Introduced in the 1990s, Traminette has gained a foothold in vineyards across the Northeast and Midwest due to its cold tolerance and disease resistance.

Vineyard and Soil Preferences

Traminette thrives in sandy loam soils and prefers slightly sloped sites for optimal drainage and sun exposure. Michael emphasized the importance of early leaf pulling to allow sunlight to develop the grape’s flavor precursors, ensuring a rich and complex wine profile.

Winemaking Techniques

Michael detailed his winemaking process, highlighting the importance of cold fermentation and short skin contact to retain Traminette’s signature floral and fruity notes. He also touched on experimenting with non-intervention wines, using natural yeasts to create unique flavor profiles.

Tasting Notes

Traminette’s bouquet is a sensory delight, featuring aromas of rose petals, orange blossom, and jasmine. On the palate, expect notes of guava, lychee, Honeycrisp apple, and a medley of spices like ginger and cloves. Michael’s description painted a vivid picture of a wine that’s both elegant and versatile.

Food Pairings

One of the standout moments was the discussion on food pairings. Michael recommended pairing Traminette with:

• Spicy Asian Cuisine: Think Thai green curry or dumplings with chili oil.

• Seafood: Oysters and other light, briny dishes.

• Cheese: Gruyere is a perfect match for Traminette’s nuanced flavors. For sweeter versions, desserts like cheesecake or roasted meats complement the wine beautifully.

Why Traminette Matters

Traminette is more than just a hybrid grape; it represents the innovation and resilience of modern viticulture. Its ability to thrive in colder climates while offering a sophisticated flavor profile makes it a valuable addition to any wine enthusiast’s repertoire.

What’s your experience with Traminette? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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