Get To Know Exotic Wines And Their Flavor Profiles

Are you a fan of wines? If so, you may have heard of some of the more exotic types that hail from far-flung corners of the world. From zesty Portuguese Vinho Verde to the rare Malbecs found in Argentina, there are plenty of exciting wines out there that adventurous connoisseurs can explore. 

Take a closer look at some of these lesser-known varietals and their unique flavor profiles!

Vinho Verde

Vinho Verde is a type of Portuguese white wine. It is light and refreshing with a bright acidity that makes it perfect for summertime sipping. This wine is usually low in alcohol, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer not to drink too much. Its flavor profile features notes of citrus and green apple that give the wine its signature zesty character. It pairs well with seafood dishes or lighter fare like salads. The mix of acidity and fruitiness makes it an excellent pick for an aperitif.

Rioja

Rioja is one of Spain's most famous wines and comes from the Rioja region in northern Spain. It is a red wine that typically has notes of ripe berry and cherry, with hints of oak and spice. This robust red wine has a medium body and intense flavors such as black fruits, leather, tobacco, sweet spices, and vanilla. The flavor profile of Rioja can vary depending on the age, but all are renowned for their complexity and balance. It pairs well with heartier dishes such as roast beef, lamb, and game meats.

Malbec

Malbec is an Argentinian grape variety that produces full-bodied red wines with deep purple hues. It also has a fruity character, with flavors like blackberry, plum, and chocolate. Malbec is often aged in oak barrels, which adds notes of spice, smoke, and vanilla. Its velvety smooth tannins make it a great choice for steak dinners or pot roasts.

Its flavor profile usually goes beyond typical fruit flavors to include savory elements such as chocolate, espresso beans, smoked bacon, earthy mushrooms, herbs, and sweet spices. This wine is an excellent choice for pairing with grilled steak or lamb chops due to its bold flavors and high tannin content.

Zweigelt

This Austrian red grape variety produces delightful dry wines that are medium-bodied yet still robust enough to stand up to rich meats like pork loin or a duck confit. This is one of the few wines produced in Austria, and it's known for its intense dark fruit flavors, such as cherry and blackberry. Its flavor profile includes fresh cherry jam aromas along with notes of plum jam and violets on the palate. Zweigelt is also known for having moderate tannins, which makes it great for sipping by itself as well as pairing it with food such as poultry or game.

For those who appreciate fine wines but want to explore something different than what they usually find in their local liquor stores or supermarkets—exotic varietals could be just what you need. Whether it's Portugal's Vinho Verde or Austria's Zweigelt, these unique grapes offer incredible flavor profiles that will make your taste buds sing. 

Contact a local winery to learn more.