15 GRAPE VARIETIES YOU SHOULD TRY!
Are you tired of drinking the same wines over and over again? Are you looking for the next bottle that will truly excite you? If yes, you’re in the right place, because below you’ll find 15 wine varieties you absolutely need to try! And not just any 15 varieties, but 15 special ones that will definitely thrill you!
Torrontés
Have you tried every Malagousia in Greece and are now searching for the next aromatic white wine that will excite you? Look no further! Let us introduce you to Torrontés, the white diamond of Argentina. Bursting with tropical fruit, delicate white flowers, and refreshing acidity. Can you think of anything better? Try Amauta Torrontes 2014 Bodega El Porvenir de Cafayate with an aromatic valley-shrimp ceviche and prepare to be amazed!
Bonarda or Douce Noir
Elegance, herbal character, and juicy red fruit! No, we’re not talking about another Xinomavro or even Pinot Noir — we’re talking about Bonarda! Bonarda is Argentina’s unsung hero, long overlooked and underestimated. In recent years, however, some of the country’s top producers have rediscovered it, and now it’s gaining a loyal following. Try La Marchigiana Bonarda from Catena Zapata to understand what the fuss is about!
Mavroudi
How much more Agiorgitiko and Cabernet Sauvignon can you drink? It’s only natural to be tired of them. But as long as Thrace’s Mavroudi exists, nothing will ever be boring again! It’s important to distinguish it from the Mavroudi found in the rest of Greece (often Agiorgitiko clones), because the Thracian version is entirely different. Structure, electric acidity, and Rhône-level complexity make Mavroudi the next big thing in Greek varieties — even if only a few producers dare to work with this beast. The Nikolaidis family has been doing it for years, and doing it exceptionally well, with Fine Mavroudi Anatolikos Vineyards.
Potamisi
A white Cycladic variety that is definitely “closed” in character, but if you try it from the right hands, you’ll fall in love. Citrus aromas, richness, minerality, and crisp acidity create an irresistibly appealing whole. Try Alkar Potamisi 2023 from Messarea Winery in Tinos and pair it with grilled fangri sea bass — it’s a divine combination!
Roussanne
The white grape of the Rhône is just as important as Syrah and Grenache, producing world-class, long-aging wines. Its addictive buttery texture combined with its explosive aromatics has fans all over the world. Roussanne is also cultivated in Greece by daring growers, yielding fantastic results. The Roussanne from Manousakis Winery in Crete is a top-tier example, with incredible finesse and complexity. Pair it with sautéed scallops in beurre blanc sauce for the ultimate gastronomic experience.
Lagrein
You may have never heard of it, but it’s one of Northern Italy’s favorite varieties. It has refreshing acidity, juicy red fruit, and savory olive-like notes, making it perfect with pizza and pasta with red sauce! Italians adore it because they believe it pairs with everything — even fish. And you know how seriously Italians take food! Try Lagrein Elena Walch with a puttanesca and you’ll be delighted.
Zakynthino
A variety rooted in Zakynthos, as its name suggests, now making waves in Corinthia with fantastic results. Rich, with ripe yellow fruit and a subtle floral touch that impresses. Rare Zakynthino 2025 by Yiannis Papargyriou is a truly outstanding expression you must try!
Negoska
Its name means “Naousa” in Slavic, but it is mainly cultivated in Goumenissa. A tough and resilient variety that produces wines with finesse, acidity, and aromas of red fruit and flowers. It participates in the PDO Goumenissa blend with Xinomavro — and tames it! Try a more alternative and wonderful version in Migma PetNat Rosé from Hatzivaritis Estate.
Nerello Mascalese
This is the grape of Mount Etna, and as you might imagine, it has a strong mineral character, crisp acidity, and fine tannins. White flowers and juicy red fruit make it irresistible! Alberelli di Giodo Sicilia Nerello Mascalese 2018 by Carlo Ferrini is one of the examples that will make you fall in love with the variety.
Mouchtaro
A red variety from the Valley of the Muses that produces both juicy reds and refreshing rosés! Red fruit, crisp acidity, and herbal notes create a very appealing profile. Try Mouchtaro from Muses Estate with a venison fillet in red fruit sauce!
Dafni
A variety that nearly went extinct, but thankfully local Cretan producers saved it, giving us the chance today to enjoy a unique wine named after its laurel-like aromas. Combined with citrus notes, it’s simply delightful!
Kydonitsa
It’s no longer a secret that Kydonitsa is the next rising star. Low alcohol, aromas of flowers, peach, and quince, and its gentle acidity have made it a favorite among wine lovers. The Kydonitsa from Oenops Wines is a fantastic, free-spirited expression of the variety.
Mourvèdre or Monastrell
Originally from Spain, but thriving in France and Australia. If you love full-bodied reds with ripe black fruit, herbal and gamey notes, Mourvèdre will become your new favorite. Try Nostos Mourvedre from Manousakis Winery.
Vertzami
Said to be the most deeply colored Greek variety, with an impenetrable purple hue in the glass. Originally from the enchanting island of Lefkada, but showing its best expressions in the Peloponnese. With intense fruit, juicy acidity, and herbal character, it has won over even the most demanding palates. Try Vertzami Aias 2017, perhaps the best Vertzami on the market.
Romeiko
Romeiko is a reddish variety from Chania, quite oxidative and not very deeply colored. Studies show it has genetic ties to one of Madeira’s noble varieties — which already hints at its suitability for sweet wines! Try Euphoria from Dourakis Winery and you’ll understand why.
The botilia team
