W3 Wine School

Ortega Off-Dry (Germany)

The Ortega grape is a crossing of Müller-Thurgau and Siegerrebe.

Ortega Off-Dry Flavors

Ortega Off-Dry wines are highly aromatic. Expect aromas and flavors of Apricot, Peach, and Honey, with Floral and Spicy undertones.

Apricot
Apricot
Peach
Peach
Melon
Melon
Honey
Honey
Elderflower
Elderflower
Spices
Spices

Ortega Off-Dry Profile

Ortega Off-Dry is an Off-Dry, mildly acidic, white wine, much like Gewürztraminer.

SUGAR:Off-Dry (6-12 g/l)
BODY:Medium
FRUIT:Medium -Low
ACIDITY:Medium - Low
ALCOHOL:10-11% ABV
Temperature Serving temperature:
8-10°C (46-50°F)

Ortega Off-Dry Food Pairing

Ortega Off-Dry pairs well with light dishes, vegetable dishes (asparagus), and salads.

The weight of the wine, and the Off-Dry nature, also pairs well Spicy Food.

Aperitif
Aperitif
Salads
Salads
Vegetables
Vegetables
Asparagus
Asparagus
Pasta
Pasta
Sushi
Sushi
Chicken
Chicken
Chili
Chili

Excellent Pairings

Aperitif. Potato Chips.
Spicy Asian and Tropical. Sushi.
Seafood. Plain Fish. Grilled Fish.
Grilled Chicken. Grilled Pork.
Pasta with light sauces.


The Ideal Glass for Ortega Off-Dry

A small Tulip Shaped glass is the best choice for off-dry white wines.

A smaller bowl also helps to serve smaller quantities, and keep the wine cold.

Remember to hold the glass by the stem!

Ortega Off-Dry Cheese Pairing

Off-dry white wines (Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Chenin Blanc) have a touch of sweetness that makes them super versatile with cheese.

  • Brie and Camembert are cheeses with a creaminess that pairs beautifully with the sweetness and acidity of Ortega Off-Dry.
  • Chèvre (Goat Cheese). A tangy and bright goat cheese is a classic with slightly sweet whites.
  • Gorgonzola Dolce. Sweet wines balance the saltiness and funk of mild blue cheeses.
  • Havarti and Fontina are buttery and mild cheeses that play well with the fruitiness of the wine.
  • Taleggio (Washed rind cheese). The cheese funk is mellowed by the sweetness of the Ortega Off-Dry.
  • Gruyère is nutty and rich, and balance nicely with the acidity and fruitiness of Ortega Off-Dry.

If You Like Ortega Off-Dry

You May Also Like:

Chenin Blanc - Off-Dry (France)
Fior d'Arancio (Italy)
Gewürztraminer (France)
Liebfraumilch (Germany)
Müller-Thurgau (Germany)
Pinot Gris (France)
Ortega Off-Dry (Germany)
Ruländer (Germany)
Riesling Off-Dry (Germany)
Traminette (USA)
Vouvray Off-Dry (France)

German Grapes

Ortega

Ortega is a crossing of Müller-Thurgau and Siegerrebe

Ortega

Ortega is a very early-ripening grape that achieves high sugar content, even in average years.

This contributes to an aromatic richness and make it suitable for off-dry or sweet wines. The acidity is moderate, resulting in wines with a soft, smooth mouthfeel.

About Ortega

Ortega was developed in Germany in 1948. The name was chosen in honour of the Spanish poet and philosopher, José Ortega y Gasset.

In Germany, Rheinhessen and Pfalz have the most plantings.

It is also popular in England and Switserland.

White Wines

The primary use of Ortega is in the production of white wines. These wines are typically aromatic and flavorful, and can range from dry to sweet, with balanced acidity and full body.

Sweet Dessert Wines

Due to the high sugar content, Ortega can be used to produce sweet dessert wines. These wines are rich and luscious, often with pronounced fruit and honey flavors.

In Germany, Ortega Auslese is a typical dessert wines with a rich and peachy flavor bouquet.

Sparkling Wines

The grape's natural acidity and aromatic qualities make it suitable for producing sparkling wines, offering a fresh alternative to traditional sparkling wines.


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