The world of wine is vast and varied, with a rich palette of flavors waiting to be discovered beyond the familiar territory of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and chardonnay. For those with a curious palate, diving into unusual wine varietals can be an adventure in itself, offering a taste of the unique terroirs and winemaking traditions from lesser-known corners of the viticultural world. This guide embarks on an exploration of the flavor spectrum presented by unusual wine varietals, shedding light on the hidden gems that await the adventurous wine lover.
Unusual red wine varietals
Saperavi: native to georgia (the country, not the state), saperavi is a teinturier grape variety, meaning its flesh and juice are red, unlike most red grapes that have clear juice. It produces deep, full-bodied wines with pronounced acidity and tannins, boasting flavors of dark fruits, licorice, and spice. Saperavi wines offer a glimpse into one of the world’s oldest winemaking traditions, with georgia’s viticultural history stretching back over 8,000 years.
Nero d’avola: hailing from sicily, nero d’avola is known for its bold, fruity flavors, often compared to syrah. Wines made from nero d’avola feature notes of ripe black cherries, plums, and peppery spice, complemented by smooth tannins and a warm, mediterranean character. This varietal thrives under the sicilian sun, producing wines that are robust yet surprisingly fresh.
Unusual white wine varietals
Picpoul de pinet: a gem from the languedoc region of france, picpoul de pinet is appreciated for its vibrant acidity and lemony freshness. It offers aromas of citrus zest, green apple, and floral hints, making it an excellent pairing with seafood, particularly oysters. Picpoul de pinet provides a crisp, refreshing alternative to more common white wines, perfect for those hot summer days.
Gruner veltliner: while not entirely obscure, gruner veltliner from austria deserves more attention for its versatile flavor profile. It ranges from light and crisp with notes of green pepper and lime to more complex versions featuring stone fruits and white pepper. Gruner veltliner’s high acidity makes it a food-friendly option, capable of complementing a wide array of dishes.
Exploring sweet and fortified varietals
Pineau des charentes: a fortified wine from the charente region of france, pineau des charentes is made by mixing unfermented grape juice with cognac eau-de-vie. The result is a sweet, luscious wine with flavors of honey, dried fruits, and nuts, alongside the distinctive warmth of brandy. It’s a delightful apéritif or dessert wine, showcasing the harmonious blend of grape and spirit.
Tokaji aszú: from hungary, tokaji aszú is a sweet wine made from grapes affected by noble rot, concentrating their sugars and flavors. It’s known for its incredible complexity and longevity, offering layers of apricot, honey, and spice, underpinned by vibrant acidity. Tokaji aszú’s unique production process, involving the addition of botrytized grapes to the must, results in a wine that is both opulent and elegantly balanced.
Conclusion
The world of wine is filled with fascinating varietals that challenge and delight the palate in equal measure. Exploring unusual wine varietals not only broadens one’s taste horizons but also offers insight into the diverse cultures and climates that nurture these distinctive grapes. From the robust reds of georgia and sicily to the crisp whites of france and austria, and the sweet treasures of france and hungary, the flavor spectrum of wine is as broad as it is deep. So, raise a glass to the adventurous spirit of wine exploration, and let the journey through the world’s lesser-known varietals begin.