Spain, home to grape varieties as renowned as Tempranillo, Garnacha and Albariño, is also a country full of curiosity about discovering new wine treasures. On this journey of exploration, today we're diving into the world of international grapes that are less well known around here: five varieties that promise to surprise our palates with their uniqueness and character.
- Tannat – Uruguay:
From the rolling lands of Uruguay comes Tannat, a thick-skinned grape with a deep colour. Although it originally comes from France, it has found an exceptional home in Uruguay, where it produces robust, structured wines. Its intense flavour, with notes of black fruit and spice, is a unique aromatic and tasting experience for lovers of red wines with character.
- Pinotage – South Africa:
Hailing from South Africa, Pinotage is a unique and distinctive variety, the result of a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Known for its deeply coloured red wines with aromas of forest fruits, spice and a subtle smoky touch, Pinotage offers an intriguing experience for adventurous palates. Its smooth structure and silky tannins make it an excellent partner for grilled meat dishes and mature cheeses.
- Aglianico – Italy:
From the hills of southern Italy, the Aglianico grape wins us over with its elegance and power. Known as the «Nebbiolo of the south», it produces red wines of great structure and complexity. Its aromas of red fruit, liquorice and earthy notes, combined with a firm tannic structure, make any Aglianico tasting a memorable moment. Perfect with red meat dishes and mature cheeses.
- Xinomavro – Greece:
This Greek wine gem, Xinomavro, deserves attention for its versatility and intriguing character. It produces deeply coloured red wines with aromas of forest fruits, spice and black olives. Its high acidity and firm tannins give it excellent ageing potential, revealing complexity and elegance over time.
- Furmint – Hungary:
From the cool hillsides of Hungary, the Furmint grape surprises us with its potential for making unique white wines. Mainly associated with Tokaji wine, it produces exceptional sweet wines with notes of honey, apricot and a characteristic mineral touch. However, it can also offer high-quality dry wines with refreshing acidity and fruity aromas, showing off its versatility and appeal.
These five international grape varieties that are little known in Spain are just the start of an exciting journey through the world of wine. With their distinctive aromas, flavours and personalities, they invite wine fans to explore new horizons and discover exciting wine experiences. Would you like us to keep uncovering little-known varieties in Spain? Leave us a comment and we'll keep telling you more about this fascinating world!