Off the Beaten Vineyard Path
There’s more to European wines than the famed slopes of Bordeaux or the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. For those with a keen interest and a thirst for adventure, venturing into lesser-known wine regions can unveil a treasure trove of unique flavours and stories. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Europe’s vineyards, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly in a glass.
Slovenia: A Hidden Gem
Nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, Slovenia is Europe’s unsung hero of viticulture. The country’s three main wine regions—Primorska, Posavje, and Podravje—boast a variety of climates and soils, making it a playground for winemakers.
Try a glass of Zelen from the Vipava Valley. This rare, indigenous grape offers fresh, aromatic whites that whisper of Slovenia’s lush landscapes.
Zelen pairs delightfully with seafood, particularly Adriatic shrimp or a classic seafood risotto, embodying the essence of the Mediterranean.
According to local legend, a Slovenian winemaker once charmed a group of French sommeliers with his Zelen, leading one to exclaim, “This is not wine; this is poetry!”
Portugal’s Tejo Region
Beyond the world-renowned ports of the Douro Valley lies Tejo, a region with deep historical roots in winemaking dating back to the Romans. Here, the focus is on both indigenous and international grape varieties, grown on the fertile banks of the Tagus River.
A bottle of Touriga Nacional from Tejo showcases the region’s prowess in red wines—rich, full-bodied, and bursting with character.
The robust nature of Touriga Nacional makes it a perfect companion for hearty meat dishes. A traditional Portuguese stew or slow-cooked lamb will elevate the dining experience.
A famed Tejo winemaker once noted, “Our wines are like the river they grow beside—deep, powerful, and full of life’s stories.”
Greece’s Assyrtiko: The Island’s Pride
The volcanic island of Santorini is home to Assyrtiko, a grape that thrives in the arid climate and volcanic soil. This white wine is celebrated for its crisp acidity, mineral notes, and ability to age gracefully.
Seek out a Santorini Assyrtiko for a taste of the island’s magic. Its bright acidity and citrus notes make it a refreshing choice.
Assyrtiko’s crispness cuts through the richness of dishes like grilled octopus or a creamy fava bean purée, typical of Greek cuisine.
A Santorini vintner once quipped, “Assyrtiko is the island’s way of sending a bottled message across the seas.”
Tips for the Intrepid Wine Lover
- Storage: Keep your wines in a cool, dark place, ideally at a constant temperature. The lesser-known bottles might surprise you with their ageing potential.
- Service: Pay attention to the serving temperature to fully appreciate the wine’s bouquet and flavours. Whites and rosés are best served chilled, while reds should be slightly below room temperature.
By exploring these under-the-radar regions, you’re not just expanding your wine repertoire; you’re supporting the diverse tapestry of European viticulture. It’s a journey of discovery, one sip at a time.