Discovering new, fresh flavors is one of the great pleasures of wine exploration. If you’re looking to diversify your white wine horizons beyond the familiar chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc and Riesling, here are some selections to start your journey.
ALBARINO
The albarino grape is produced and grown in the northwest corner of Spain in the Rias Baixas region. Albarino is delicate and lively with aromatic characteristics that hint at peach and lime.
THE VALUE
- 2009 Mar tin Codax Albarino, Spain (about $16 retail)
THE SPLURGE
- 2009 Soleira Albarino, Spain (about $25 retail)
GRUNER VELTLINER
Gruner Veltliner is primarily grown in Austria and Eastern Europe. This slightly spicy wine has distinctive notes of white pepper, mineral and grapefruit zest. Most are made in a dry, crisp simple style, but some versions can taste similar to aged French Burgundy.
THE VALUE
- 2009 Michlits Stadlmann Gruner Veltliner, Austria (about $17 retail)
THE SPLURGE
- 2009 Oriel Or tolan Falkenstein Gruner Veltliner, Austria (about $25 retail)
MARSANNE
Marsanne is usually blended with viognier or roussanne to make the white wines of the Northern Rhone Valley. It’s also planted in California and Australia where the wine has a more full-bodied style. Unlike many white wines, marsanne does not have the typical fruity flavors but instead offers a rich taste of nuts, ginger and peach.
THE VALUE
- 2009 Mas Carlot Marsanne/Roussanne, France (about $13 retail)
THE SPLURGE
- 2009 d’Arenberg The Hermit Crab Marsanne/ Viognier, Australia (about $18 retail)