Whatever your preference, it is just as easy to get stuck in a rut. I, myself, have a clear preference for Pinot Noir, specifically grown in the Burgundy region of France. I have a list of favorite producers, favorite designated vineyards, favorite vintages, etc. Branching out to me may be enjoying a Pinot Noir from Williamette Valley in Oregon. But, I need to practice what I preach and be more adventurous.
Luckily, as a wine buyer, I get to sample a lot. If Zinfandel is not my favorite wine to drink, it is still my duty to taste as many as possible and find examples that are well made and will make consumers happy. There are also opportunities for me to sample lesser-known grapes, from lesser-known regions. It is especially a magical thing when I find something that tastes much more expensive than it is!
If you are going to take my advice and try a red wine that is new to you, you certainly don’t want to break the bank doing so. Here are just a few suggestions of wines that are not only good values, but a perfect match for fall cuisine:
Malbec from Argentina: I know you have heard of Malbec. It has been around forever. Originally used as one of the blending grapes in a classic, French Bordeaux, it is now receiving critical acclaim on its own being grown and bottled in Argentina, predominantly in Mendoza, but also in Salta and Patagonia. Argentinean Malbecs range from medium to full-bodied, with rich, lush, jammy fruit and a nice hint of spicy chocolate. World-class winemakers from all over the world are either serving as consultants to existing wineries, or creating their own labels. Paul Hobbs has done both.
Zweigelt from Austria: I can only hope that by now you have tried at least one of the great, white Grûner Veltiners from Austria, perfect for summer sipping. Now is a great time to try this red. Like Malbec, it offers a very nice spice, however is much softer and lighter in body style. I can most closely compare it to a Beaujolais Villages, yet more concentrated in flavor and finishes with lively acidity, due to the country’s cool climate. It definitely is the epitome of trying something off the beaten path. I personally prefer it with a slight chill.
Petite Sirah from California: If you would like to try something lesser-known, yet grown here in the great U.S.A., try a Petite Sirah. As many as sixty wineries are growing and producing this varietal, which is different from Syrah, yet clearly an off-spring somewhere down the line. It has long been used to blend with Zinfandel to add layers of complexity, color and tannin. One of my favorite examples is Green Truck (same producers as Red Truck, but farmed organically) which blends in about 20% Merlot. Winemaker, John Allbaugh comments: “Lush flavors of cassis, dark cherries & plums with a hint of pepper, and brown spices add just the right horsepower." And unmistakably delicious, I must add.
Have some fun with blends as well. Ask for a reasonably priced Super-Tuscan from Italy (Drunken Goose by L’oca Cuica) or a Grenache-based blend from France’s Rhone Valley (Black Sheep GSM). You will be delightfully surprised that they offer great value!
