Maturana Tinta Makes A Comeback from near Extinction in Rioja
When I started this series on rare varieties, my intentions were twofold. First, I was curious to discover the lesser known varieties of the world. Due to the fact that…
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Graševina – A Grape of Unknown Origins Thrives In Croatia
Though not a common wine on the international scene, Graševina is the most widely planted grape in Croatia. Actually, Graševina claims something like every fifth vine in the country. As…
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Pušipel – A Grape of Many Names
Have you ever heard of Furmint, one of the varieties behind Hungary’s famed Tokaji wines? Well, in Croatia, Furmint is known as Pušipel. Actually, Furmint was called Šipon in Croatia…
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Babić – A Powerful And Fresh Croatian Red Wine
If you’re looking for a harmonious, balanced and unique red wine, then look no further than Babić. Grown only in northern Dalmatia, this Croatian variety accounts for just 1% of…
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On Being a Winemaker at a Cantina Sociale
Not all winemaking gigs are created equal. A winemaker’s responsibilities vary greatly depending on the type of winery for which he or she works. Producing wine at an estate winery…
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Grk – The Most Obscure Wine I’ve Tasted Yet
What’s the most obscure variety you’ve ever tasted? For me, it’s Grk. This indigenous Croatian variety grows exclusively on the island of Korçula in Lumbarda. Actually, this village is the…
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Limnio Embodies The Potential of New Greek Wines
This week’s Rare Varieties feature takes us back to Greece to discover an ancient variety first mentioned by Homer. Actually, Homer wasn’t the only famous ancient Greek writer to talk…
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Exclusive Look Inside Adelaida Vineyards & Winery
Adelaida Vineyards & Winery has always been my favorite winery in Paso Robles, CA. They work with a wide range of Rhône, Burgundian, and Bordeaux varieties. Notably, the wines are…
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Plavac Mali – A “Little Blue” Grape Makes Powerful Wines
If you have never tried a Croatian wine, then Plavac Mali is an ideal place to begin. This is also the Croatian wine that is likely most accessible to you,…
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Goruli Mtsvane – The Life of The Party
Quite literally, Georgia is the birthplace of wine. What could be more impressive than that? Perhaps the fact that Georgians have continuously implemented the same traditional winemaking methods for over…
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