2010 is the year of the new wine varietal.  One of the resolutions that I made as 2010 began was to try one new varietal per month and blog about it.  Now, I have blogged already about some distinct varietals, but I am looking for something really new to my palate.  I hope that you will come with me on the journey, not only following me on this blog, but also stepping outside your “comfort zone” to try something new.  Who knows, you might even find a new favorite.

Most of you are familiar with the “old standards” of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.  But there are literally thousands of wine varietals or varieties.  Albarino, Auxerrois, Barbera, Gamay, Riesling, Malbec, Gruner Veltliner, Garnacha, Lemberger, Muscat, Tannat, and Zweigeltrebe are all interesting varietals from all over the world.  www.wine-searcher.com/grapes

If you like Cabs or Zins, try a Malbec from Argentina.  If you like Chardonnay, try an Albarino from Spain.  If you like Pinot Noir, try a Barbera from Italy.  Ifyou are less adventurous and do not want to trying something completelydifferent, stay within the same varietal but go to a different part ofthe world.  For instance, Chardonnay from Napa is generally very different from Chardonnay from the Burgundy region in France.  Pinot Noir from Napa is different than Pinot from Burgundy.  If you are a Napa Pinot fan, try a Pinot from Oregon.  Ifyou like Sauvignon Blanc from California, try one from New Zealand, youwill be very surprised at the difference and you may even like it!

Some varietals are easier to find than others, but you just have to look beyond those “old standards".

If you are worried about purchasing “unknown” bottles or glasses because of the risk/expense, host a wine party!  Invite a group of 4-6 people/couples and assign them a varietal to bring.  At the end of the evening, the group will have tasted a number of new varietals and at the cost of only one bottle.  It’sa great excuse to get together with friends and discover something newabout wine. If you need any help with what varietals to “assign” sendme a note and I will be more than happy to help you out.

Take the opportunity to use 2010 as the year to broaden your wine horizons. . . you might just like what you find.