Forgotten Grapes & Emerging Wine Regions

Are you a die-hard “ Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Loire ” enthusiast who swears by the classics? It might be time to broaden your perspective. The wine world is evolving, consumers are getting more curious, and some hidden gems are still flying under the radar.

From forgotten grape varieties to up-and-coming wine regions, here’s a deep dive into the bottles that deserve a spot in the spotlight.

🍇 Forgotten Grape Varieties That Deserve a Comeback

If you think wine is all about the Chardonnay – Merlot – Sauvignon Blanc trio, it’s time to rethink. Some long-overlooked grape varieties are making a strong comeback, thanks to passionate winemakers bringing them back to life.

Savagnin: Jura’s Bold Outsider

• The signature grape of Vin Jaune, this variety produces highly distinctive whites with notes of nuts, spices, and an incredibly long finish.
• It also shines in fresher styles, delivering crisp, saline-driven whites that rival top Burgundies.

Romorantin: The Hidden Gem of the Loire

• A rare grape grown exclusively in Cour-Cheverny.
• Produces sharp, mineral-driven whites with impressive aging potential.

Mondeuse: Savoie’s Answer to Syrah

• A vibrant, spicy red with the structure of Syrah but a fresher, more digestible profile.
• With climate change improving its balance, Mondeuse is gaining serious credibility among red wine lovers.

✋ Why are these grapes still under the radar?
Because they don’t fit the mainstream French wine narrative. But those in the know recognize their true value.

🌍🍷 Emerging Wine Regions You Should Watch

For a long time, we assumed that only a few select regions could produce world-class wines. But times are changing—climate shifts, evolving techniques, and innovative winemakers are putting new regions on the map.

Canada: More Than Just Maple Syrup 🍁

• British Columbia and Ontario are making a name for themselves with cool-climate, ultra-precise wines.
• Rieslings and Pinot Noirs from the Okanagan Valley are starting to challenge European benchmarks.

England: The Next Champagne? 🇬🇧🥂

• Southern England is producing stunning sparkling wines with Champagne-like minerality and freshness.
• Major Champagne houses are already investing in these vineyards—and for good reason.

Scandinavia: The Future of Nordic Wine? ❄️🍷

• Believe it or not, Denmark and Sweden are making wine.
• Their light, crisp whites are catching the attention of top sommeliers.
• Production is still tiny, but the potential is huge.

👉 Why pay attention to these regions?
🔥 Because curiosity fuels enjoyment. Discovering wines before they hit the mainstream is a thrill.
🔥 Because climate change is reshaping the wine map. Today’s too-hot regions (hello, southern Spain) may soon be replaced by cooler climates.
🔥 Because prices are still reasonable. Bordeaux grands crus are skyrocketing? Why not grab a Jura white or an English sparkling wine before they become luxury items?

🔥 Conclusion: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Next time you’re choosing a bottle, challenge yourself.
✅ A crisp, mineral Savagnin instead of a classic white Burgundy?
✅ A spicy Mondeuse instead of a standard Syrah?
✅ An English sparkling wine instead of an overpriced Champagne?

Wine is about pleasure and exploration—and the most exciting discoveries aren’t always where you expect them.

🥂 So, are you ready to step off the beaten path?