Four Uncommon Varietals That Picky Wine Drinkers Will Adore
Throughout my journey as a Wine Guide, I have had the pleasure of trying many different types of varietals. A varietal means a certain type of wine / grape. Everyone has heard of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Moscato, but rarely do people venture off the trail of popular wines. Why? Because we tend to drink what has been recommended to us or what we see others drinking.
Well fear not! I am here to recommend 4 fine Varietals to try!
Please note - For your convenience, I am going to picture current bottles that Traveling Vineyard sells as references because I have personally experienced each once of these wines. Plus, these bottles are exceptional buys! Any of the following pictured wines can be purchased directly from www.shop.winwithwine.biz
1 - Sangiovese (san-jo-vay-zay)
From: Typically found in Italy (it is actually Italy's top wine that is produced.) It was first introduced to the US in the 1980s.
Description: Normally high acidity red, packed well with tannin. Traditional styles are famous for herbaceous flavors such as tomato leaf, dried flowers, thyme, and black pepper. Cool climate wines will produce a more dominate red currant to roast tomato tone while warmer climate's will produce a blackberry to raspberry tone.
Price Range: $15-$20
Pairs well with: Rich meats and tomato based dishes such as lasagna, mom's spaghetti and meatballs, and even pizza! (When in doubt - pair with Italian!)
Recommended if you enjoy: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo,
Pictured: Traveling Vineyard's Santoreggia -2014 Sangiovese
2 - Pinotage (pee-no-taj)
From: Most widely planted in South Africa. (Ohhhh exciting right!) It is actualy the most planted red grape in all of South Africa. It was created by a scientist who wanted to find a hardier strand of Pinot Noir to grow (since Pinot Noir's are so finicky.) However, do note that it tastes nothing like Pinot Noir. (Fire that scientist!)
Description: Normally high in body and alcohol. (YIPPEE) This wine also packs plenty of bold flavors. Cool climate wines will produce more red cherry and black cherry notes while warm climate wines will produce a fig or blackberry tone.
Price Range: Avoid cheap variations because they will be no good! Shoot for $15-$20.
Pairs well with: roast duck, lamb, Tex-Mex, mushrooms, black beans, arugula, and Cajun dishes
Recommended if you enjoy: Australian Shiraz, Petite Sirah, high priced Cabernet Sauvignons
Pictured: Traveling Vineyard's Burl - 2014 Pinotage
3 - Gerwurztraminer (geh-vurz-traminer)
From: Planted in France, Germany, Ukraine, and the USA.
Description: High in alcohol and fruit tones but low in acidity. Ranges from dry to medium sweet. Cool climates wine will produce a tangerine to rose tones while warm climate wines will have guava to lychee- nut tone.
Price Range: $10- $15
Pairs well with: Anything spicy, crab, lobster, chicken, roasted veggies, and pork. Great Super Bowl Wine!
Recommended if you enjoy: Beer - many beer drinkers enjoy the hops like tones.
Pictured: Traveling Vineyard's Screaming Goat - 2014 Gerwurztraminer
4 - Moscatel (mos-ka-tell)
From: Most often grown in South Africa and often is confused with Moscoto.
Description: Highly perfumy, with a juicy mouth feel, and well balanced with acidity. Tends to have a distinct "grapiness" and can also display tones of citrus or peach.
Price Range: $10 - $15
Pairs well with: Mangoes, peaches, pumpkin pie, blue cheeses, or pears. Personally enjoy this one by the beach or from my back deck.
Recommended if you enjoy: Pinot Gris, or Semi Sweet Rieslings
Pictured: Traveling Vineyard's Smirk - 2015 Moscatel
Well there are your 4 picks for picky wine drinkers to try! Trust me, I am a picky eater and drinker - so if I enjoyed them - I ensure you, you might as well too!
As always, I would love to hear you feedback, stories, or questions that
deal with this subject. You can always find me directly at www.winwithwine.biz
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CHEERS!
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