Spring has officially sprung in the Lehigh Valley, bringing new flowers, new colors and new beginnings. It is the perfect season to embrace novelty when it comes to wine. With a myriad of grape varietals and styles, the world of wine has a lot to offer! Whether at a restaurant or at one’s favorite wine store, it is worth trying to get away from conventional and predictable wines. It is time to stay away from the house wine and think outside the box (pun intended). I encourage all wine enthusiasts to (re)discover these grape varietals, which are great to sip as the warmer weather settles in. These fun wines are a guaranteed way to bring blissful pleasure and help get us in the mood for summer!
Albariño
Albariño is one of my favorite white grape varietals from Spain. The best examples of wines made of Albariño are produced within the Rias Baixas Denomination in the Province of Galicia (Northwest Spanish Coast). Albariño can be described as an “aromatic grape” due to its powerful aromas of grapefruit and apple blossom. A sniff of Albariño brings joy, even before the first sip. This dry and light bodied wine with citrus flavors also has a savory dimension. A hint of brine, reminiscent of the Atlantic Ocean nearby, makes this wine the ideal pairing for seafood (and my best friend for a Sunday brunch!). If you like Sauvignon Blanc or Dry Riesling, this is the grape to try!
Torrontés
If Argentina is famous for Malbec (the red grape), its emblematic white grape varietal is indisputably Torrontés. The Argentinian region of Salta has ideal growing conditions with high altitude vineyards producing the most flavorful Torrontés wines. The sweet floral aromas of rose petals and apricot suggest a sweet wine but Torrontés is typically made in a dry style. Delicate flavors of white peach, a smooth texture, combined with a gentle acidity make it ideal to pair with spicy cuisine from Asia or India. Torrontés is meant to be drunk young (check the label for a recent vintage) and is a rising star on the international stage. I could not eat my Pad Thai without it.
Grüner Veltliner
This versatile grape varietal was born in Austria (hence the unpronounceable name), where it remains the most planted white grape and the best region of production. “Grü-Ve” is made in two different styles: light-bodied with citrus fruits dominating the flavor profile or a richer style with more concentrated stone fruit and spices. Its signature taste is the tangy acidity and aromas of white pepper that makes it an ideal companion for food with strong flavors (even the “impossible-to-pair” artichoke or Asparagus). An excellent alternative to Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner’s popularity is growing for good reasons!
Spanish Rosado
OK, this Spring I pledge to be more audacious and drink something different. When it comes to Rosé, I inevitably pick classic wines from Provence in France (another one of my French habits some might say…). Not very far from my native land, Spain has some of the best rosé producing regions, notably in “La Rioja D.O.Ca” and “Navarra D.O.” With a long tradition of winemaking and interesting native grapes such as Tempranillo or Garnacha, the Spanish are crafting some seriously pleasing dry rosés with more body than their Provençal counterparts. With fascinating pink colors and aromas of ripe red fruits, these Spanish Rosados are great to pair with…well, I would say almost anything!
Happy Spring and Happy Wine Sipping!
Cheers!
About the Author
Céline Riquelme is an International wine specialist, wine consultant and wine blogger.
A native of France, Céline has worked and lived throughout Europe and the USA and holds the Diploma of the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust). Céline founded “Three Cheers Wine Solutions” based in Center Valley to share her knowledge and passion for wine. Céline helps clients select the best wines to serve during their special events and hosts tailor-made wine tasting experiences as well as wine educational classes. Occasions range from small parties (private dinners, bridal showers) to large gatherings (weddings, networking and charity events, corporate team-building…)
Céline also provides consulting to restaurants to optimize their wine list, train their staff and enhance the restaurants’ profile through wine related events.
To learn more about hosting a private wine tasting or get advice regarding wine selection for a future event threecheerswine.com
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