We often gravitate toward the familiar in almost anything we do, whether it is going to our favorite restaurants or vacation spots. The same applies to wine; we often reach for the label or bottle most known to us. However, there are great unknown, less-discovered wines that offer a spot on everyone’s menu whether pairing with a simple ham and cheese sandwich or a more elaborate dinner.
I have had the opportunity to sample wines from many countries and I am amazed at the quality and value that these lesser-known wines offer. Let us look at some of these grapes.
Viognier, France Viognier is a white grape that is grown in many places – California, Australia, New Zealand – yet it truly shines in southern France. Viognier is identified by its classically fresh and intense flowery perfume and is like no other grape varietal. Additionally, they each have their own unique flavor profiles. Southern France is from where Saint Peyre Viognier comes. Saint Peyre has aromas of ripe peaches, pineapple and honeysuckle that automatically make the mouth water. The taste is that of richness with notes of mango, banana and apricots, ending with a deep, luscious mouthfeel. It’s a great value at less than $15. Pairs best with roasted chicken, grilled duck breast, and fatty fish such as salmon and tuna.
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QUITE A FIND: These wines are good quality and good value but remain little-known.
COURTESY JESSICA NORRIS GRANATIERO[/caption]
Semillon, Australia Semillon is a white varietal that is rarely made as a single-grape wine. Semillon is often blended with other white grapes, particularly sauvignon blanc, to create a white blend. It was most popular in France yet has seen a resurgence in Australia, Chile and South Africa. Brokenwood is from the Hunter Valley region of Australia that sits just north of Sydney and along the coast. Its placement benefits from the ocean’s cool breezes, which allow the grapes to maintain a nice balance of acidity. It has a greenish tint with lemongrass, green apple and pear notes on the palate. It does not spend any time in oak barrels and is only stainless steel fermented, resulting in a crisp, high acid – yet approachable – wine. Pairs best with tomato and mozzarella salads, cauliflower pizza or grilled white fish dishes.
Zweigelt, Austria Zweigelt is the most widely grown red grape in Austria. It took its name from Friedrich Zweigelt, who created it by breeding two red Austria grapes, St. Laurent and blaufränkisch. It is often characterized by a lighter body. It has bright acidity and notes of cranberry, plum and black pepper on the mouth. Most are stainless steel fermented. Paul D Zweigelt is a great everyday selection (less than $20). It has a medium, fuller-style body with bing cherry and vanilla notes. A little pepper spice gives a zing at the end. Pairs best with classic beef burgers, turkey burgers, grilled salmon with pink peppercorns or veal scaloppine.
Lagrein, Italy Lagrein is indigenous to the region of Alto Adige, which is about three hours north of Milan. Lagrein shows us a medium-full body with soft tannins, making it quite approachable at any age. Tenuta J. Hofstatter Lagrein has become a favorite. It displays a velvety fullness and soft acidity. It is on the medium-body side with flavors of cherries, blackberries and hints of raspberries. Pairs best with grilled shrimp in a spicy tomato-based broth, chicken vegetable soup and classic spaghetti and meatballs.
Jessica Norris Granatiero is the founder of The Savory Grape, a wine, beer and spirits shop in East Greenwich. She can be reached through her website, www.jessicagranatiero.com.
