2007 Helfrich Gewurztraminer Vin d’Alsace Quick swirl

Such a pretty Gewurztraminer from Alsace -- aromatic, scented with spices and flowers, it has the faintest touch of sweetness married with a lively acidity, so it’s never cloying. Helfrich’s 2007 Gewurztraminer excels as a match for Asian foods -- Thai, Vietnamese and spicy Chinese dishes. But it would be wonderful, too, with a fresh pea soup or risotto, or a spring minestrone and a simple roast chicken.

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Region: Alsace

Price: $10 to $13

Style: Aromatic and lively

What It Goes With: Asian food, fresh pea risotto, vegetable soups, roast chicken

Where to Find It: Bob’s Market in Santa Monica, (310) 452-2493; Du Vin Wine & Spirits in West Hollywood, (310) 855-1161, www.du-vin.com; How’s Market in Torrance, (310) 793-9114 and North Hollywood, (818) 432-4766, www.hows .foodmagic.com; the Wine Club in Santa Ana, (714) 835-6485, www.the wineclub.com; and Wine Exchange in Orange, (714) 974-1454 and (800) 76WINEX, www .winex.com; and some Whole Foods.

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S. Irene Virbila