The underrated beauty of lesser
The world of wine is filled with a vast array of varietals, styles, and regions. While some wines are incredibly popular and well-known, others tend to fly under the radar. In this article, we'll explore the underrated beauty of lesser-known wines and why they're worth seeking out.
What makes a wine underrated?
When we think of popular wines, certain varietals probably come to mind—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and so on. These wines are popular for a reason: they're delicious, versatile, and widely available. However, there are many other wines out there that don't get the same level of attention.
So, what makes a wine underrated? Often, it's a combination of factors. Perhaps the wine comes from a lesser-known region, or it's made from a grape variety that's unusual or difficult to pronounce. Maybe it's simply been overshadowed by a more popular wine style.
For wine lovers, underrated wines are like hidden gems waiting to be discovered. They offer a chance to try something new and unexpected, and they often represent excellent value for money.
Underrated wine regions to explore
One of the best ways to discover underrated wines is to explore lesser-known wine regions. Here are a few to consider:
The Jura
The Jura is a small wine region in eastern France that's known for producing unique, funky wines. The region's most famous wine is Vin Jaune, a savoury, oxidative wine that's aged for years in oak barrels. But the Jura also produces excellent whites and reds made from lesser-known grape varieties like Savagnin and Trousseau.
The Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is a sprawling wine region in central France that's known for producing a diverse range of wines. While wines like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé are well-known, there are many other wines worth trying, like Muscadet, Chinon, and Saumur-Champigny.
Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is a wine region in Hungary that's often overlooked by wine lovers. However, the region produces some fantastic wines, including reds made from the Kékfrankos grape and whites made from the Olaszrizling grape. The region is also known for its sparkling wines, which are made using the traditional method.
Underrated grape varieties to try
Another way to discover underrated wines is to seek out those made from lesser-known grape varieties. Here are a few to try:
Baco Noir
Baco Noir is a red grape variety that's grown primarily in Canada and the northeastern United States. The grape produces robust, full-bodied wines that are often likened to Syrah or Pinot Noir.
Lambrusco
Lambrusco is a red grape variety that's grown in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region. The grape is used to make both still and sparkling wines, and it's known for its bright acidity and fruity flavours.
Picolit
Picolit is a white grape variety that's grown in Italy's Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. The grape is used to make sweet dessert wines that are rich and complex, with notes of honey, apricots, and dried fruit.
The benefits of exploring underrated wines
So, why should wine lovers seek out underrated wines? There are several reasons:
Discover new flavours and styles
Trying new wines is one of the joys of being a wine lover. Exploring lesser-known wines allows you to discover new flavours and styles that you may not have tried otherwise.
Support small producers
Many underrated wines come from small, independent producers who may not have the same marketing and distribution budgets as larger wineries. By seeking out these wines, you can support small businesses and help them grow.
Great value for money
Because underrated wines aren't as widely known or popular, they often represent excellent value for money. You can often find high-quality wines at lower prices than their more famous counterparts.
Conclusion
The world of wine is full of treasures waiting to be discovered. By exploring underrated wines, you can expand your palate, support small producers, and find some excellent value for money. So next time you're browsing the wine aisle, consider seeking out a lesser-known varietal or region—you never know what you might find!