Tired of the Same Ol' Wines?

Are you a bit bored with your Chardonnay habit? Or Cab? Or the Pinot Noir fad? Maybe it's time to try a new wine.

For Chardonnay lovers try Rhone Whites (Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne)

You can find these as single varietals (like a wine of Viognier only) and as blends. You'll find Viognier very similar to Chardonnay. IMO it's a much more interesting grape than Chard.

If you prefer the non-oaked Chards you might also like Pinot Blanc and Grenache Blanc. These two wine are quite refreshing and may appeal to Sauvignon Blanc drinkers, also.

If you drink Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc try Albarino

Albarino is of Spanish origin and is citrusy and refreshing making it a great summer wine. It's made to go with seafood.

If you love Pinot Noir try Cabernet Franc and Grenache

Cab Franc is a medium body and medium acid Bordeaux grape. You get red fruit and spices on the nose. These can be excellent wines if grown in a warm enough area otherwise they are a bit vegetative. Good with pork, burgers, and lamb, and and many beef dishes. Think of Cab Franc as your lighter, summer Cab Sauv.

Grenache is sort of Pinot Noir lite. It's got a red fruit flavor, can be spicy, and often blended with other grapes such as Syrah. Use it as you would Pinot Noir with foods such as chicken and pork plus lots of grilled foods.

If Merlot is your thing drink some Mourvedre 

Yes, hard to pronounce and harder to find. It has characteristics of dark fruit, smoke, and pepper. It's a meaty wine made for the same kind of meal--foods such as ribs, lamb, and sausages.

Also, Merlot drinkers should try to a couple other Bordeaux varietals -- Cabernet Franc and Malbec.

If you're into Cabernet Sauvignon try a Tempranillo or Petit Verdot

Primarily a Spanish wine of medium body and red fruit flavors Tempranillo is great with pizza and pasta.

Petit Verdot has flavors of dark fruit and dried flowers. Pair it with foods like ribs, burgers, and any grilled beef. Try a grilled hamburger with melted Gouda cheese and chili peppers.


Here's a pronunciation guide so you know what to ask for.