When we think of wine, we usually turn to the classics: Bordeaux, La Rioja, Tuscany, Napa Valley… However, the world of wine is vast and full of hidden gems that deserve to be discovered. If you like to explore new sensations in a glass, here are some lesser-known wine regions with wines that will surprise you.
Colchagua Valley, Chile
Located in the central zone of Chile, the Colchagua Valley has gained recognition in recent years, but it is still in the shadow of other more famous regions. Its varied soils and Mediterranean climate allow for the cultivation of high-quality red grapes, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, and Syrah.
Why try it?
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It is home to some of the best Carménère in the world, the emblematic grape of Chile.
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Perfect conditions for structured reds with good acidity and spicy notes.
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The combination of traditional wineries and innovative projects offers a great diversity of styles.
Jura, France
In the shadow of Burgundy, the Jura region is a hidden treasure in eastern France. Here, unique white wines such as Vin Jaune are produced, made with the Savagnin grape and aged under a layer of yeasts (similar to Sherry). Light reds from Trousseau and Poulsard also stand out.
Why try it?
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Its wines have a very special oxidative character.
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It is an ideal region for those looking for complex and different flavors.
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Perfect for cheese lovers, as the local Comté pairs incredibly well with its wines.
Bekaa Valley, Lebanon
Lebanon has one of the oldest winemaking traditions in the world, with a history of more than 5,000 years. The Bekaa Valley is its winemaking heart, producing intense and well-structured wines with varieties such as Cinsault, Carignan, and Syrah.
Why try it?
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Vineyards located at high altitude, which gives freshness to the wines.
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Traditional methods are combined with modern winemaking techniques.
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These are wines with a great balance between fruit, spices, and acidity.
Recommendation: A Château Musar, probably the most iconic Lebanese wine, with a blend of Bordeaux and Mediterranean grapes. At Baco, you can get it so you can taste one of the best and most important references from Lebanon.
Tenerife, Spain
The Canary Islands are emerging as a fascinating wine destination. Tenerife stands out for its vineyards planted in volcanic soils, which gives the wines a very special minerality. Native varieties such as Listán Negro and Listán Blanco stand out.
Why try it?
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Volcanic soils that provide a unique character.
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Fresh and vibrant wines with good acidity.
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Traditional methods such as the "cordón trenzado" (braided cordon) training system.
Swartland, South Africa
Swartland, northwest of Cape Town, has gone from being a forgotten region to becoming a benchmark for the new wave of South African wines. Here, small producers are revolutionizing the market with natural and expressive wines made with varieties such as Chenin Blanc, Syrah, and Grenache.
Why try it?
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Focus on minimal intervention wines and traditional methods.
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Ideal conditions for producing wines with great concentration and freshness.
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Swartland's Chenin Blanc grape is considered one of the best in the world.
Recommendation: A Swartland Chenin Blanc, with notes of pear, honey, and a hint of minerality, perfect for lovers of structured whites.
The world of wine is vast and full of surprises. Exploring these lesser-known regions will not only broaden your palate but also allow you to discover authentic wines with a great history behind them. Are you up for trying some of these hidden gems?
