Wines of the unknown
The rise in popularity of the so-called ‘new world’ wines gave good prominence to countries like the USA, Chile and South Africa who are producing some fantastic wines.
This month we will focus on some interesting wines from countries where most of us are not even aware that wine production exists. Nonetheless, these countries are capable of producing some very interesting wines which would be worth a try.
The first wine comes from Morocco. The appearance of the vine in Morocco dates from the foundation of Carthage by the Tyrians. The Romans, who then colonized the country, baptized Mauretania Tingitane and strongly developed the culture whose wine they greatly appreciated.
Surviving the Islamization of the country in the 7th century, which nearly destroyed it, the cultivation of the vine experienced a revival in the 18th century.
Bernard Magrez Excelcio is a wine from the Guerrouane appellation and is a blend of Syrah and Grenache. It has a very expressive nose of red fruits. On the palate, a beautiful substance and a certain liveliness. This wine will go very well with your red or white meats cooked on the grill, however, to make it even more interesting I would pair this wine with a tajine.
The second wine is a very interesting Rose wine from Brazil. Once again, the producer is Bernard Magrez, who is well known for investing in less popular countries and regions and exposing the potential they have to the world. Today Bernard Magrez owns over 50 estates all over the world, amongst his top and most popular estates in Bordeaux.
Brilho Rosé, is a 100% Pinot Noir from his estate in Brazil. This is a very fruity, easy-drinking Rosé wine with a nice light pink colour. It has a beautiful aromatic freshness which makes it the perfect accompaniment to some grilled fish and grilled vegetables. Enjoying it in the sunset with some Brazilian music will make that a perfect pairing.
The third wine is from Syria. Domaine de Bargylus Rouge. This wine is considered the most dangerous wine ever produced. Making wine in Syria is a real challenge given the lack of wine culture and infrastructure. The task became more difficult with the breaking out of the war in Syria. Harvesting is done over the phone by the two brothers. Grape samples are sent by taxi for tasting in Beirut in order to determine the harvesting dates for each parcel; laboratory tests are made outside the country; exporting of the wines is also an extremely complex process.
The wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot. It is very elegant and fresh with aromas of black fruit and white pepper. On the mouth you will taste a mineral freshness, acidity and well-integrated tannins, with a long spicy finish. A perfect pairing to red meats, hearty dishes and also cheese.
The fourth and final wine is from North Macedonia. Chateau Kamnik Temjanika. A premium aromatic white wine made 100% from Temjanika grapes. The wine is marked with a brilliant and tender hay-like yellow colour. The charm of this wine is revealed through its elegant and sensual aroma, typical for the variety. The fruit aromas of peach and tropical fruits that prevail are complemented with the spicy undertones of white flowers and elder. The taste is medium-bodied, with a delicate and harmonious freshness and with a long fruity-and-spicy aftertaste. Enjoy this wine as an aperitif or combined with light starters, salads or Asian cuisine specialties.
The beauty of the wine world is discovering new and interesting wines, which many would have not heard of, so go out there and explore!
