I know Chardonnay and Cabernet are super popular. They generally lead the list of white and red wines around the world. So why would I suggest you consider alternatives? With inflation rearing its ugly head, why not consider less expensive alternatives, while expanding your wine knowledge and palate? While I love Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, I also believe that “variety is the spice of life.” With these thoughts in mind, I will suggest a few alternatives to both Cabs and Chards and some other popular varieties and make a few recommendations of some of the New Jersey versions that I really enjoy. Since we’re talking about broadening our horizons, I have deliberately left out some other popular wines, such as Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling.
Some Underrated White Wines (in my opinion)
- Albarino-Definitely worth trying. Albarino pairs perfectly with seafood and white meats. One of my favorites, and definitely the least expensive version is made by Autumn Lake. In the past they have also made an oaked and an unoaked. I love them both!
- Viognier-These wines tend to have a little more body than most of the others on this list. William Heritage Winery and Hawk Haven Vineyards make very good versions, though in limited quantities (and may be hard to find).
- Gruner Veltliner-A very good dry white that is pretty versatile and even able to stand up to a bit of spice. My current fave is from Bellview Winery.
- Gewurtztraminer-This wine tends to be a bit sweeter, but it’s great with spicy food. Hawk Haven Vineyards produces my favorite New Jersey Gewürztraminer.
- Traminette-Dry to off-dry, but refreshing and reasonably priced. Bellview Winery and Autumn Lake Winery make my two favorite NJ versions.
White Blends-Generally less expensive than the single varietals. Here are a few of my NJ favorites:
- Unionville Vineyards’ Hunterdon Mistral Blanc – Viognier (50%), Marsanne (25%), Rousanne (25%). This one is a bit more expensive than some of the wines mentioned here, but It is unique and delicious!
- Cedar Rose Vineyards Quartz-A refreshing blend of Gruner Veltliner, Vidal Blanc, Cayuga, and Albarino.
The white wines mentioned that are currently in my cellar are pictured below.
Some Underrated Red Wines (in my opinion)
- Malbec-A very nice alternative to Cabs. While my favorites come from the Mendoza Region of Spain, Old York Cellars makes a very nice Malbec that is reasonably priced.
- Blaufrankisch-A wonderful dark and rich wine. Great with barbecued meats. My faves are produced at Beneduce Vineyards, Cedar Rose Vineyards, Bellview Winery, and Autumn Lake Winery.
- Chambourcin-This grape grows very well over most parts of the state and I have enjoyed this wine at many of our wineries. Among my favorites are White Horse Winery (also the least expensive, I believe); Cedar Rose Vineyards; and Autumn Lake Winery.
- Norton-A terrific, albeit hard to find, full-bodied, dry red. Cedar Rose Vineyards may still have a couple bottles.
Red Blends-Like white blends, these wines tend to be good buys, without giving up flavor. Among my faves:
- Hawk Haven Vineyards Flying Press Red (one of the most reasonably priced, as well)-A fruit forward red, very smooth tannins, and a hint of sweetness. Great with tomato-based barbecue sauces, burgers, and other grilled favorites.
- Hawk Haven Vineyards Proprietor’s Blend-Similar to Flying Press Red, but drier. It is very good and also reasonably priced.
- Amalthea Cellars Cantina Mas-A new red blend is produced for each season and sold in their collapsible plastic jugs. They are all wonderful and a great bargain, as well.
- Auburn Road Winery’s Good Karma, a light fruit forward blend of Merlot and Pinot Noir.
The red wines mentioned above that are currently in my cellar are pictured below.
Cheers!
There’s Still Time to Download Your E-book copy of New Jersey Uncorked: A Snob-Free Taste of NJ Wine. It is my guide to New Jersey wines and wineries. The ebook is only available on the Apple iBook app. Use the code Summer22 and get it for just $7.99!
Coming Attractions
- Beneduce Vineyards August, 2022
- Angelico Winery in Lambertivlle
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