Spotlight On The World’s Most Underrated Wine Regions

Even if you’re not a prolific wine drinker, you’ll likely recognize the names of famous regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rioja, or Napa Valley. What you may not know is how many interesting selections you’re missing out on from regions that typically fly under the radar. While the wine is produced in smaller quantities, growers will have their own unique winemaking styles and use the region’s climate and soil to put a signature spin on each bottle. Read on further for a taste of some lesser-known regions from around the world and get inspired for the next time you’re out shopping for that special bottle.

When people hear the term cool-climate wine, often the first thing that comes to mind is ice wine, and while Canada’s Niagara region is famous for its dessert wines, wine connoisseurs demand that attention be paid to this region’s reds and whites too. Many are farmed sustainably, and the cool climate offers the wine's terroir and complexity. The Pinot Blanc VQA by Konzelmann Estate Winery, vintage 2016, is one gripping selection if you’re looking for something fresh and crisp. Upon opening the bottle, you’ll enjoy the aromas of banana and pear fruits accented by soft floral notes and a touch of citrus. On the palate, it offers a refreshing ginger root zest and good acidity leading up to a mineral-inspired, green apple-like finish.

The Languedoc region of France offers amazing quality wines and they are some of the most affordable in the country. The Merlot Languedoc by Domaine Magellan is a gorgeous 2016 vintage for lovers of smooth and spicy reds. Order it today from retailers like Wine Online and have it delivered right to your door in 1-4 business days. This wine is made from vines planted as far back as the 1970s. It’s a classic selection created without oak and without over extracting. It is spicy, and smoky, exhibiting good richness and smooth tannins.

Finally, the Chablis region of France just north of Burgundy allows their signature Chardonnay grape to ripen more slowly, helping it to absorb the quality of the soil more completely resulting in a truly earthy and sprightly white – a very different alternative to fruit-forward Chardonnay. The Chablis Les Vieilles Vignes by Pascal Bouchard is a unique 2016 vintage boasting chalky minerals, freshly grated lemon zest and sweet butter. It’s known for its acidity, smokiness, and core of buttery citrus fruit. This wine has an old-vine quality that is long with good grip and lasting minerality – an excellent choice for its price. Pair this white with rich fish and roasted vegetables.

Next time you’re on the hunt for that perfect bottle, zero in your search on a region you haven’t bought from before. Speaking of bottles, if you are doing a wine tour consider bringing along a chemical-free glass water bottle, in case you want to bring a little something with you! You never know when you may come across an open barrel on a wine tour, and the opportunity to have wine that fresh is hard to miss.

Choose the ones wine critics are pointing you towards when they mention selections that are underrated, that perhaps are worthy of uncovering and introducing to your circle of friends, family, or guests at an event. Expand your horizons and see whether your favourite bottle isn’t just waiting to be discovered.