Feature Coverage

The Six Most Delicious Wines You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

“In northern Italy last week, I tasted a crisp, earthy white from the bellone grape and a violet-scented red, recantina. I’d never even seen a wine from either grape before. Trust me, it’s only a matter of time until these come to a restaurant near you—they’re that good. The current flood of delicious wines made from little-known grapes such as these can’t compete with floods of rosé being poured everywhere, but the vogue for exotic varietals is a trend that just keeps growing. So if you’re hopelessly fixated on the top 10 international classics, such as cabernet, pinot, and chardonnay, you’re missing out on the latest wine-world thrills (and bargains).

“Bear in mind that what’s considered an “obscure” grape evolves pretty quickly. For example, Assyrtiko from Santorini burst onto the scene a couple of years ago and is now part of the popular mainstream. Curious drinkers bored with last year’s “in” grapes (such as Corsican sciaccarellu) needn’t worry. Among the new wave of hot grapes making tracks in New York are a host of light bodied, aromatic reds and crisp floral whites with such names as trepat, pecorino, ruchè, and gringet.

Nascetta

“A rare Piedmontese white with complexity and the structure to age, nascetta originated in the town of Novello. Ignored for years, it’s now championed by a passionate group of top producers, such as Barolo maestro Elvio Cogno. Eric Guido, wine director for Morrell’s, says it’s in a prime position to gain traction quickly. One to try: 2015 Elvio Cogno Anas-Cetta A big, intense, golden white, it has aromas of white flowers and a very elegant, savory mouthwatering taste and a creamy, succulent texture…”

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Elin McCoy, July 24, 2017
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The Six Most Delicious Wines You’ve Probably Never Heard Of