Here are Some Lesser-Known Wines You Need To Try

If you know anything about wines, you’re probably already aware of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. But if you think you’ve tried all the wines in the world and are trying to expand your wine horizon, you’d be glad to hear that there are still hundreds of lesser-known wines that you may be unaware of.

So whether you’re a seasoned wine-taster trying to branch out even more, or are a wine novice who wants to try lesser-known wines, here are a few you should definitely give a shot to.

Godello

Only a few hundred Godello vines remained in the variety’s homeland in Galicia, in northwest Spain, during the 1970s. However, Horacio Fernández launched a revival project to replenish the stocks in 1974. Thanks to his efforts, this near-certain extinction wine survived and even managed to flourish. If this fascinating history isn’t enough to get you to try Godello, the delicious taste might. This rich white wine is produced with immensely concentrated fruits, peaches, and grapefruit peel flavors. A rich mouthfeel balances out its racy acidity and compliments poultry dishes and seafood very well.

Petite Sirah

This one may not be for the faint-hearted, but if you’re adventurous and like the big reds, Petite Sirah should be on the top of your wine bucket list. The petite in the name refers to the size of the berries and not at all to its taste. Although Petite Sirah is generally added to red blends to enhance its color and give it that oomph, it can be handcrafted into a delicious solo varietal that is full of peppery elegance and rich berry flavors. This rare wine is dark red, bold, and often with chewy tannins. It pairs deliciously well with hearty dishes such as barbeque or lasagna or rich dark chocolate that is barely sweet.

Falanghina

The history of this wine goes way back. Most notably grown in Campania, southern Italy, it is believed that Falanghina was among the earliest varieties of Vitis vinifera planted in the country by the ancient Greeks. During Roman times, it was later blended with red variety Aglianico to produce the empire’s fine Falernian wines by the winemakers. This white wine is typically lean and crisp and has zesty aromas with refreshing green-fruit flavors. The best quality Falanghina wines are textured by a rich minerality, making them a perfect companion for Mediterranean seafood dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole.

Blaufränkisch

An Austrian red wine, Blaufränkisch is not only delicious but also founds fancy to say. It is an acidic red wine and is typically characterized by fruit flavors, particularly the taste of black cherries. People who enjoy Pinot Noir would likely appreciate its taste. Blaufränkisch can pair well with almost anything from fish to lighter meats as well as pasta dishes. So if you’re looking for something more interesting yet affordable to serve at your next dinner party, Blaufränkisch is a great option to consider. Plus, saying its name while serving it to your guests will make you look all the fancier.

Tempranillo

Looking for something bold, structured, and big? Look no further. Tempranillo is one of Spain’s major grapes and is the predominant grape used in the Rioja wine region. So if there is a bottle of wine labeled Rioja in your wine collection, it’s almost certain that it was made from Tempranillo grapes. Flavors of cherry and dark fruits dominate this wine. You’ll also notice hints of tobacco and spice as you savor a sip of Tempranillo. It is the perfect match dot hearty meals such as barbeque and steak.

Torrontés

The best qualities of Torrontés wines are made from the grapes grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Salta, Jujuy, and Catamarca in the north of Argentina. There are significant swings between daytime and nighttime temperatures in that geographical zone, which keeps the alcohol levels in check and helps retain acidity. This white wine has topical-fruit and floral aromas. Its highly aromatic nature makes Torrontésa a fantastic pairing for fragrant Thai salads, mild Indian curries, and other dishes with herby flavors. However, the slightly bitter, white pepper finish may occasionally clash with spicy dishes. So choose your bottle wisely.

Viognier

Some people believe that if this delicious white wine were easier to pronounce, it would have overtaken Chardonnay as America’s favorite white wine a long time ago. Now it is hard to conclude how true that is, but it isn’t entirely false either. This full-bodied wine has flower fragrances that are often referred to as perfume-like. It is not a sweet wine but has a fruit-forward flavor that makes it a great match for a variety of foods, including chicken, tuna, turkey, crab, and all kinds of spicy dishes. Interestingly, it is one of the very few white wines that blend well with red wines, especially Syrah. And of course, having originated in France's Rhone region, Viognier is pronounced as ‘vee-Oh-NYAY.’ 

Carménère

Having originated in Bordeaux – the French wine known for its famous blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – Carménère is now typically found in Chile. This full-bodied red wine has a velvety texture similar to Malbec. And similar to Malbec, it is both fruit-forward, with flavors of pomegranate and raspberry and a bit herbaceous with a peppery taste. It also has notes of black plum, blackberry, and blueberry. Carménère pairs exceptionally well with lamb with mint and roast pork.

If you’ve been ordering the same drink since your 21st birthday, it time to break the monotony and try something different. The world has way too many wines to offer for you to just stick to the same one. So the next time you go drinking with your friends or are on a first date, ask for one of these lesser-known wines. Not only will you be able to experience something new, but you’ll also make a great impression.