Stuck in a wine rut? Is shiraz losing its allure, or do you stick with sav blanc but would really like to try something else? Well, do I have a column for you.
I’ve had a few friends ask me recently to recommend alternative wines to the ones they go for every time they’re in a bar or a bottleshop.
The world of wine can be intimidating at times, and when you’re spending upwards of $20 on a bottle, it’s easy to play it safe by choosing something you know you’ll enjoy rather than take a risk and end up with a bottle you don’t like.
Rather than recommend a few obscure grape varieties that will have you spending the best part of next Saturday tracking down, there are plenty of mainstream ones that are similar to what you may default to every time you pour a glass.
Crisp and light-bodied whites: Sauvignon blanc is the most popular white wine variety in the country, but if my sav-loving friends are any guide to its popularity, it won’t hold that mantle forever.
They’re all looking for alternatives. Major retailers have evidence that shows they’re not alone either. Their stats show that women in particular are switching from sav blanc to pinot grigio at a rapid rate. I reckon they’re missing a trick by moving straight to grigio, a wine that can be utterly refreshing and delicious but is also capable of true blandness.
Closer to sav blanc in style, but with more complexity, are the highly aromatic grapes riesling and gewürztraminer.
Albarino (pictured) from the north of Spain and the Italian pair fiano and vermentino are also worth seeking.
Medium-bodied textural whites:
If you’re a little like me and keep reaching for the chardonnay, a white from France’s Rhône Valley or a barrel-fermented pinot gris makes a nice change.
Light-to-medium reds: I’ll agree that pinot noir is a wine you’re unlikely to ever tire of, but the vibrant gamay is a delicious alternative. It’s the grape in Beaujolais, a relatively inexpensive light red when compared with its pinot noir-based neighbour in France, Burgundy. Always think cabernet sauvignon when you think red? Try it in a blend or reach for a straight merlot from time to time.
Medium-to-full-bodied reds: Feel free to substitute grenache or mourvedre for a shiraz – or a blend of all three in a GSM – or a tempranillo-based wine from Spain’s Rioja region next time you’re thinking about shiraz.
