As producers from all over the world have started making more wine, varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc are not only created in places like France and California. You can pretty much bet that all or most of these wines will be produced in any major wine region around the world. If you are eager to try an interesting wine that has its own unique quality look for the varietals below...
Sicily
- Nerello Mascalese. An indigenous grape to Sicily, this varietal has mostly been used for blending in the past. Producers are now creating certified organic wines dominated by this grape. Any Italian I have poured this wine for, remarks on how beautifully created and rich with flavor it is. The wine carries interesting mineral quality and leathery notes like Tempranillo from Spain but has a softer finish and more of a rich fruit flavor. When drinking and sharing this wine, I am reminded how wine truly is an art form. Some people are completely taken aback and in awe of how phenomenal it tastes; whereas others with a new world palate spit it out as if it is not worthy of drinking. You make the call, but I firmly believe that as with all art - keep an open mind and give it a chance.
* Regal Wine Imports - Di Giovanna Nerello Mascalese, certified organic.
*Look for Nero d'Avola another Sicilian varietal
Chile
-Carmenere. Originating in Bordeaux, this varietal is mostly prevalent in Chile today. Intense flavor like a Syrah but with its own personality. This wine has a rich black fruit taste with hints of licorice and spice.
*Regal Wine Imports - Rayun Carmenere
Spain
-Tempranillo clones. Similar to Bordeaux and Italian wines, the labels can be intimidating. Americans have heard more and more about Tempranillo but many don't realize that certain varietals listed on labels are just basically a Tempranillo clone. Tinto del Pais for example.. Valderiz Crianza from the Tinto del Pais grape. Crianza signifies aging so you might want to let this wine breathe for a bit to open it up. Tempranillo varietals tend to be very dry and full in body. I love the leathery notes and blackberry hints. I have found that this wine almost drinks better the day after opening.
*Regal Wine Imports - Valderiz Crianza
