Fiona Beckett from the Guardian newspaper has an article on Obscure Wines to Liven up Jaded Palates. She explains how unusual varietals of wine are currently popular, as seen in selections from high-street retailers. Wines from regions not traditionally associated with specific grapes are gaining interest. Examples include Italian varietals like Sangiovese from Australia, Grüner Veltliner and Gewürztraminer from New Zealand and Albariño from Uruguay. This trend is driven by wine enthusiasts’ curiosity.
The recommended wines to explore include:
- Specially Selected Castellore Pagadebit Romagna DOC 2022 from Aldi, priced at £8.99. This is a dry white wine.
- M&S Kopraas SMV 2023, available in-store for £9. It’s a robust, Rhône-style red by South African winemaker Duncan Savage, primarily Syrah.
- Bouza Albariño 2022 from Jeroboams, priced at £27.50. This Uruguayan albariño is elegant, bright, and fruity, differing slightly from the Spanish version.
- Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Discovery Collection Aligoté 2022, available for £14. A super-dry, fresh white, presenting an interesting alternative to Chablis.
- Bodegas Mazas Garnacha Vinas Viejas 2020 from Ultracomida, priced at £14.95. This is a powerful red from Toro, Spain, a lesser-known wine region.
