Rare Varietals Cure Wine Boredom
Are you tired of drinking the same old Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon every time you open a bottle of wine? If so, it might be time to switch things up and explore some rare varietals that can cure your wine boredom. These wines can offer unique flavors, aromas and experiences that will bring excitement back to your wine drinking journey.
What are rare varietals?
Rare varietals are wine grapes that are not commonly grown or produced. These grapes may have unique characteristics or be difficult to cultivate, leading to smaller yields and limited availability. Some of these grapes have been around for hundreds of years, while others have been newly discovered or created through cross-breeding. While some rare varietals have gained popularity over time, others remain relatively unknown and unappreciated.
Why should you try rare varietals?
Trying rare varietals can add an element of surprise and adventure to your wine experience. Often, these wines come from lesser-known regions, which can expose you to new styles of winemaking and terroir. Because these wines are often made in small batches, they tend to be produced with greater care and attention to detail. This can result in higher quality wines and a more unique and memorable drinking experience.
Not only can rare varietals be a fun and exciting way to explore the wine world, but they can also offer a sustainable alternative to popular grape varieties. By supporting lesser-known grapes, you’re also supporting a more diverse and sustainable wine industry.
Which rare varietals should you try?
With so many rare varietals to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some rare varietals worth exploring:
1. Assyrtiko
Assyrtiko is a white grape variety that originates from the island of Santorini in Greece. It produces dry, acidic wines with flavors of lemon, lime, and mineral notes. Assyrtiko is best enjoyed young, but can also age well for several years.
2. Blaufrankisch
Blaufrankisch, also known as Lemberger, is a red grape variety that is native to Austria and Hungary. It produces medium-bodied wines with dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry and cherry, as well as spice and pepper notes. Blaufrankisch wines can be enjoyed young but also have aging potential.
3. Tannat
Tannat is a red grape variety that originates from the southwest of France, but has found a new home in Uruguay. It produces full-bodied, tannic wines with dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry and plum. Tannat wines are known for their high levels of antioxidants, which can offer health benefits.
4. Vermentino
Vermentino is a white grape variety that is native to Italy and France. It produces dry, crisp wines with flavors of citrus, green apple, and minerality. Vermentino is a refreshing wine that is perfect for pairing with seafood and salads.
5. Savagnin
Savagnin is a white grape variety that is native to the Jura region of France. It produces dry wines with complex flavors, such as nuttiness and oxidative notes, as well as aromas of dried apricots and honey. Savagnin is also used to make the famous Vin Jaune, a wine that ages in oak barrels for at least six years.
6. Sagrantino
Sagrantino is a red grape variety that is native to the Umbria region of Italy. It produces full-bodied, tannic wines with dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry and black cherry, as well as herbal and spice notes. Sagrantino wines can age well for a decade or more.
7. Fiano
Fiano is a white grape variety that is native to the Campania region of Italy. It produces full-bodied, aromatic wines with flavors of ripe peaches, apricots, and honey. Fiano wines are best enjoyed young when they have bright acidity and fresh fruit flavors.
8. Aglianico
Aglianico is a red grape variety that originates from the Campania and Basilicata regions of Italy. It produces full-bodied, tannic wines with dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry and plum, as well as earth, tobacco, and leather notes. Aglianico wines can age well for several years.
9. Mencia
Mencia is a red grape variety that is native to the northwest region of Spain. It produces medium-bodied, aromatic wines with flavors of red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, as well as earth and mineral notes. Mencia wines can be enjoyed young but also have aging potential.
10. Godello
Godello is a white grape variety that is native to the northwest region of Spain. It produces dry, aromatic wines with flavors of green apple, citrus, and mineral notes. Godello wines are perfect for pairing with seafood and poultry dishes.
These are just a few examples of the many rare varietals worth exploring. When trying something new, it’s important to keep an open mind and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Who knows, you may discover a new favorite wine that you never would have tried otherwise.
Final thoughts
Rare varietals offer a unique and exciting way to explore the world of wine. They can offer new flavors, aromas and experiences that will bring excitement back to your wine drinking journey. By supporting lesser-known grapes, you’re also supporting a more diverse and sustainable wine industry. So, why not step out of your comfort zone and try something different? You never know what you might discover.