Time To Change Your Ways

Are you drinking the same wine over and over because fear of the unknown grips you when you try to grab something different? It’s time to let go of that phobia and get out of that wine rut! Engage your senses in something new. Give your eyes something new to behold, your nose new scents to take in and your palate new flavors to experience. Understandably, it’s hard to let go of the tried and true. But here are a few suggestions that should assist you in taking the leap without taking a crash.
. If you like Shiraz/Syrah, try a Grenache. The fruitiness will be somewhat the same but the tannins will be a bit lower. Some Grenache wines are blended to up the earthiness aspect of the flavor spectrum. Since Grenache is originally Spain and is the most widely planted red varietal in that country, let me suggest a Spanish Grenache blend. Try the Castillo Perelada ROC Crianza (14.50) from Catalunya in northeastern Spain. The blend of 70% Grenache (called Garnacha in Spain) and 30% Tempranillo is aged for 12 months in combination French and American oak. Although born in the Old World, this wine tastes like a New World creation and is lovely to enjoy by the glass as well as with food.
. If you like Chardonnay, especially California Chardonnay, try a Viognier. Viognier is a little more aromatic than Chardonnay so your nose will be thrilled with the new fruit scents; the two types of wines are fairly full-bodied and have substantial weight on the palate. Try the Peirano Estate Viognier from Lodi district of California ($13.50); full of stone fruit and blossom scents, the weight of the wine on the palate will thrill the Chardonnay lover in you. Pairs with similar foods as the Chardonnay.
. If you like Sauvignon Blanc, try an Albariño. The Albariño grape is indigenous to the Iberian peninsula (you find this grape in both Portugal and Spain). The better known Albariños come from the Rias-Baixas region of northern Spain and are crisp and flavorful and usually unoaked. The Paco & Lola Albariño is an excellent alternative wine at $18.99. It has fresh flavors balanced with a lively acidity and is perfect for dill salmon with risotto or tempura lobster.
. Last but not least, to all you avowed Cab drinkers try a big, bold Aglianico from Taurasi in southern in Italy instead. The tannins and flavor profile will be somewhat similar with Aglianico having high tannins, subtle earthiness and chocolate-like characteritics. Aglianico can age for up to 10 years. The Antica Hirpinia (22.99) is from the 2000 vintage is now ready to drink with its velvety mouth feel and harmonious tannins.