When it comes to choosing a bottle of wine, we often find ourselves drawn to the familiar names and popular varieties. However, the world of wine is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this post, we invite you to step off the beaten path and explore 10 underrated wines that deserve your attention.
1. Trousseau: Hailing from the Jura region in France, Trousseau is a light-bodied red wine with notes of cherry, earth, and spice. Its elegant profile is perfect for those looking for something a little different.
2. Furmint: This white grape variety from Hungary produces wines with bright acidity, floral aromas, and hints of honey. Furmint is versatile and can range from dry to sweet, making it an intriguing option for both casual sipping and food pairing.
3. Aglianico: From the Campania and Basilicata regions of Italy comes Aglianico, a full-bodied red wine known for its dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and earthy undertones. It’s a bold choice that’s sure to impress.
4. Assyrtiko: Hailing from the volcanic soils of Santorini, Assyrtiko is a Greek white wine with bracing acidity, citrus notes, and a mineral edge. It’s a refreshing and zesty option that pairs beautifully with seafood dishes.
5. Baga: A native grape of Portugal’s Bairrada region, Baga produces red wines with high acidity, firm tannins, and flavors of dark fruits and herbs. Give Baga a try for a taste of Portugal’s winemaking heritage.
6. Picolit: From the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region in Italy comes Picolit, a sweet dessert wine made from late-harvested grapes. It offers a luscious mouthfeel, aromas of dried fruits, and a lingering finish that’s perfect for indulgent moments.
7. Saperavi: This indigenous Georgian grape variety produces deeply colored red wines with rich flavors of dark berries, spices, and floral notes. Saperavi is a wine that packs a punch and is ideal for those seeking something bold and distinctive.
8. Xinomavro: Known as the “noble grape” of Greece, Xinomavro produces red wines with high acidity, firm tannins, and flavors of red fruits, herbs, and olives. It’s a wine that showcases the unique terroir of Northern Greece and is a great option for food pairing.
9. Blaufränkisch: This Austrian red wine grape variety yields wines with juicy red fruit flavors, peppery notes, and a vibrant acidity. Blaufränkisch is a versatile wine that can range from light and easy-drinking to rich and complex.
10. Pedro Ximénez (PX): This Spanish grape variety is used to make ultra-sweet and luscious dessert wines with flavors of figs, raisins, and caramel. Pedro Ximénez is a decadent treat that’s perfect for rounding off a meal or pairing with desserts.
In conclusion, exploring underrated wines can be a rewarding experience that opens up a world of new flavors and sensations. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, we encourage you to seek out these hidden gems and let your palate be pleasantly surprised. Cheers to discovering the joys of wine beyond the mainstream!