The Odd Bods

It's time to get FUNKY...

We all get stuck in the comfort zone of our go to wines e.g., Argentinian Malbec and New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. But bearing in mind there are over 10,000 different varieties of grape and many countries are now growing grapes, it’s probably time we tried a few others. 

A great place to start is on holiday (or with us).  We are happy to try the local food so why not try the local wine. In the country of origin, the quality will be high since a lot of foreign producers prefer to keep their best stuff rather than exporting to the UK.  You’ll also get to try indigenous grape varieties and try unique food and wine pairings (I can’t say it always works, I once had tripe soup in Romania with a local tipple, it was horrendous but I’m blaming the soup…)

Below I’ve picked out of couple of exciting regions for you to explore:

Bulgaria

In the 1980s and 90s, Bulgaria was the 4^th largest wine producer in the world but then it crumbled when the socialist regime fell.
It is a country that offers exceptional quality and some unique varieties.

Try this chunky Bessa Valley

"Tastes like a baked blackberry and dark chocolate pudding" 

 
Slovenia

My love for Slovenian wine started on a work trip in Ljubljana, when I was treated to a unbelievable bottle of white with lunch.  It was a beauty and I wish I’d had the Vivino app.  I don’t know what it was, but I remember it tasted of tropical fruit, honey, and a little oak. However, I think after years of searching I’ve found something similar. 

Try the honeyed Gasper 

"Tastes like a tart pineapple and honey cheesecake"

 
Austria

The Austrian wine export market struggled after the 1980’s scandal (producers were accused of adding antifreeze to their wines to increase the sweetness). But the turnaround since then has been vast. Austrian wines now have arguably the highest average quality level of any in the world. Look out for Grüner Veltliner and Riesling in the whites and Blaufränkisch and St Laurent in the reds.

Try the trendy and exotic Funkstille

"Tastes like an exotic melon and lemon ice lolly" 

 
Uruguay

The lesser-known wine producing region of South America, whose vineyards were planted primarily by Basque and Italian immigrants – (bound to produce decent stuff right!)
Most vineyards are planted in the Canelones region which surround the capital Montevideo and Tannat is the dominant grape.

Try the refreshingly zesty Bodega Garzón

"Tastes like a shot of sour apple and pear sherbet"

 
Romania

Despite what I said earlier about the tripe soup, it wasn’t the wine’s fault.
Romania is actually the 5^th largest producer in Europe and there is a new generation of wine makers offering great value for money.
They also produce some quality orange wines perfect for Spring and Summer.

Try the tropical dream Solara

“Tastes like a popular peach and apricot tubed yoghurt”

South Africa

It’s not new but some of the wines coming out of South Africa are exceptional.
The traditional grape of South Africa is Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Hermitage.

Try the silky Rising River Pinotage 

“Tastes like a juicy smoky spiced plum pudding”

If you like the sound of these, we’ve put together The Funky Case so you can try 6 quirky wines at home (click below)