The 2009 Gewurztraminer is a steal for the money. The wine reveals gorgeous varietal character in a mid-weight, dry style. Sweet spices, tropical fruit, smoke and minerals linger on the focused, sinewy finish. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. San Michele Appiano is an excellent source for delicious wines that deliver considerable pleasure. The top of the line Sanct Valentin wines are made in a style that seeks softness and textural richness, while the best values are the mid-range offerings.Importer: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808

The 2008 Gewurztraminer is a pretty white with lovely depth and richness. Passion fruit, jasmine, minerals and mint are some of the nuances that emerge from this crisp, refreshing Gewurztraminer. The style is relatively floral and medium in body, while the wine’s balance is exceptional. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Importer: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808

The 2008 Gewurztraminer is loaded with spices, passion fruit, ginger and minerals. Medium in body, the wine shows excellent persistence on the palate and a long, refined close. Once again, the Gewurztraminer is one of the better of the entry-level wines. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. St. Michele Eppan, one of Alto Adige’s most venerable properties, is also known by its Italian name, San Michele Appiano. Importer: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808

The 2007 Gewurztraminer reveals a similar personality in its reserved, introverted style. Varietal aromas and flavors are present but in a hushed, attenuated style. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2010.San Michele Appiano is another of Alto Adige’s cooperatives making gorgeous wines. The strengths here are the whites. As is the custom in this part of Italy, San Michele Appiano offers several ranges of quality, in this case three, two of which fall into the under-$25 level. Wines in the ‘Classic’ line are fermented and aged in steel, while wines in the ‘Cru’ line are partially fermented in cask.Importer: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808