The world of wine is truly diverse, but the reality is most wine drinkers stick to a relatively small sample set. No judgment, it makes sense: lives are busy, it’s comforting to stick to what you know. It’s also true that bottled representation is skewed to the main wine producing countries as evidenced from a quick stroll through the local bottle shop.
However, there are fun, even unexpected wines lurking in the margins. This week let’s search for bottles off the well-trodden wine path. Bodegas Los Bermejos 2022 Lanzarote Malvasía Volcánica, Spain ($35.
99, #12135) Sure, there are loads of wines available from Spain. But look closer at the label and you’ll find that Lanzarote hails from the Canary Islands. Part of Spain, but about as far removed as possible from the famed valleys of La Rioja or plains of Castilla-La Mancha.
Grown in volcanic soils, this aromatic Malvasía is extremely engaging. There’s an overall intensity complemented by intriguing aromas and flavours: citrus, pith, flowers, and herbs. Coming across more saline and mineral than overtly fruity, a robust entry leads to enticing texture and an assertive, fresh finish.
Bring on the shellfish or hard, ripened cheeses. Bottom line: A, Exotic island wine. Cramele Recas N/V Solara Orange Natural Wine, Romania ($24.
99, available at select private wine stores) Admittedly, the label first grabbed attention. Turning the bottle over, its source provided secondary intrigue: Wine of Romania. Extended skin co.