Wine has over 10,000 known grape varieties, yet most of us regularly encounter the same dozen or so on wine lists and store shelves—Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay,Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Reisling and the like. While these grapes have earned their popularity, there’s a whole world of fascinating, lesser-known varieties waiting just beyond our reach . Some are ancient cultivars revived after near extinction; others are regional treasures rarely seen outside their home turf. Many offer wildly unique flavor profiles that defy expectations and challenge our palates in the best way.
Have you hear of Xinomavoro meaning "sour black" in Greek, is one of Greece’s most celebrated red wine grape varieties, known for its complexity, aging potential, and versatility. Also from Greece Assyrtiko (pronounced ah-SEER-tee-koh) is a distinctive white grape variety native to the volcanic island of Santorini. It's celebrated for producing wines that are bone-dry, crisp, and intensely mineral-driven—perfect for lovers of zesty whites.
Savagnin, better known in France, is a white grape variety with a rich and complex history believed to be a descendant of the ancient Traminer grape. In Jura region, eastern France one can find the Trousseau grape, also known as Trousseau Noir, Bastardo, or Merenzao. Mostly used to make Port.
There are numerous grape varieties in Italy that we seldom hear about. Nerello Mascalese is Native to the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily. Aglianico Dubbed the “Barolo of the South,” this intense red from Campania and Basilicata delivers firm tannins, black cherry, leather, and smoky earth.
Spain gives us Txakoli is a vibrant, slightly effervescent white wine from the Basque Country in northern regions. Albariño is grown in both Spain and Portugal. The Rías Baixas DO of Spain is a major producer.
The country of Georgia gives us Rkatsiteli one of the oldest known grape varieties, often made in qvevri (clay amphorae) for a bold, amber/orange wine. Think apricot, walnut, and beeswax with a tea-like tannic grip.
Carricante and Refosco are two of the rarer grapes grown in the USA. In Canada Bath and Coronation are seldom seen. But usually grown for Jam or juice production.
