Okanagan Festival 2009 Gehringer Brothers Winery

Highway 97 at Road # 8 south of Oliver, BC. Winemakers Walter and Gordon Gehringer (two brothers) have consistently produced handcrafted wines winning numerous awards. Walter graduated from the University of Geisenheim in Germany with an engineering degree in viticulture and oenology. Gordon graduated with a degree from Weinsberg in West Germany in the Wine Masters Art. The present vineyard site was purchased in 1981 and the winery was built in 1985 and produced the first vintage that same year. They are best known for their Rieslings and offer dry, medium, and private labels as well as superb ice wines. They produce wines in the German style and are best known for their white wines. As far as I know they do not have a website. Their tasting room is open daily from 10am – 5pm. Ph# 250-498-3537.

2008 Auxerrois ($14.09). Auxerrois Blanc is a French grape that is named after the city of Auxerre in Burgundy, France and is also widely grown in Germany and Luxembourg. This wine has a delicate fruit taste with a soft mellow acidity rich in subtle flavors and finished in an off-dry style. A wine that is widely accepted by people with different preferences. A great accompaniment to seafood especially scallops and shellfish as well as cream sauce dishes. Serve slightly chilled. This was a unique wine that I had not previously tried so I purchased a bottle.

2008 Schonburger/Gewurztraminer ($15.09) This is a classic Schonburger/Gewurztraminer made in the old German tradition. The flavors profiles of these two varieties truly complement each other. Schonburger contributes a delicate spice and subtle muscat (light orange) highlights that are evident throughout. Gewurztraminer supports this wine with an added dimension of spice and a crisp lively acidity. The fruit flavors are tropical reminiscent of papaya, passion fruit, and lychee nuts. The sweetness is completely balanced by the wines flavors. Great as an aperitif (served before the meal with an appetizer) and can be served with fruit and cheese or with lighter foods. Serve slightly chilled. This is a medium-dry wine.