Wine may be categorized in several different ways, the most obvious being the three basic types — white, red and rose.

Within each category are several different sub-designations. People who differentiate between different grape varieties like to use several categorizations when discussing them.

The term "aromatic white wine" has been used to describe wines that are characterized by having a wildly floral component, so their aromas tend to be slightly exotic. More traditional wines are chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.

The semi-aromatics include gewurztraminer (like carnations or gardenias) and riesling (like apple blossoms, fresh limes, pears and several other exotic scents.)

I have always been fascinated with such wines. I especially love them with various Asian cuisines, which frequently include spices like ginger, fenugreek and turmeric.

There are, however, several other white wine grape varieties that have slightly aromatic elements, making them even more mysterious when they are produced from colder regions and produce wines that cannot be mistaken for more common grapes.

Among the semi-aromatic grapes that fascinate me is pinot grigio, notably those that come from the very cool northern Italian district of Alto Adige. Because the climate is Alpine-cold, the grapes retain a subtle aroma of fresh fennel that can be truly exciting.

However, pinot gris (the same grape) from warmer areas of California often fail to deliver this aroma because the weather is simply too warm.

Another semi-aromatic grape that has become more popular recently is vermentino, a grape that originates from Italy. Some imported versions display subtle tropical fruit (pineapple?) that can be charming. It has become popular as a warm-weather, patio-pleasing sip.

Viognier (vee'-own-yay) also has taken on its own persona with an aromatic tendency that has been described as "flower basket" spice. Unfortunately, some producers now make it in a richer style, which may avoid some of the exotic aromatics it normally has.

Gruner veltliner, a popular Austrian grape, is now being produced by several U.S. wineries. Its basic aroma is slightly like a subtly herbal version of Riesling, with a note of pine forest.

Finally, a wine with a real future here is albarino, which emanates from Southwestern Spain and Northwest Portugal. It has only recently been produced by U.S. wineries. This cool-loving grape frequently delivers wines that smell a bit like tangerines, nectarines and subtle citrus fruits.

Wine of the Week: 2024 Hendry Albarino, Napa Valley ($28) — A floral aroma with mango, lime and a bit of lemon zest in the finish. A superb wine with Thai or Mandarin food.

To find out more about Sonoma County resident Dan Berger and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: Jonathan Kemper at Unsplash