Beyond Bordeaux: Exploring Wine Regions You’ve Never Heard Of
When most people think of fine wine, they picture Bordeaux, Tuscany, or Napa Valley. But the story of wine is far older—and far richer—than these modern icons. At The Velvet Bottle, we believe the most exciting bottles often come from places the mainstream has overlooked.
Georgia: The Cradle of Wine
Often called the birthplace of winemaking, Georgia has a tradition dating back over 8,000 years. Wines here are still fermented in qvevri—large clay vessels buried underground. Grapes like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli offer bold, tannic reds and aromatic whites with unmatched character.
Lebanon: Ancient Vines, Modern Revival
Wine has been flowing from Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley since Phoenician times. Today, indigenous grapes like Obaideh and Merwah are being revived by winemakers who blend heritage with modern techniques, producing wines of elegance and depth.
Israel: Ancient Roots, Bold Innovation
With a winemaking history stretching back to biblical times, Israel bridges the ancient and the avant-garde. Modern vineyards thrive across regions like the Galilee and Judean Hills, where limestone soils and Mediterranean breezes produce wines of remarkable balance. Winemakers are reviving heritage varietals alongside international grapes, crafting expressions that are both deeply rooted in tradition and daringly modern.
Armenia: Echoes of the Oldest Cellars
Armenia is home to the world’s oldest known winery, discovered in a cave dating back 6,100 years. Indigenous grapes like Areni carry a vibrant acidity and earthy structure, perfect for food pairing or savoring slowly.
Tunisia: North Africa’s Forgotten Gems
Tunisia and Turkey might not be the first countries you think of for wine, but their Mediterranean climates and ancient vines produce bottles that rival Europe’s best. Indigenous varietals here offer surprising freshness, minerality, and spice.
Final Pour
The world of wine is vast, but the rarest treasures often lie off the beaten path. By seeking out indigenous grapes from ancient terroirs, we rediscover flavours that history almost forgot.
📩 Curious to taste what’s beyond the familiar? Explore our collection and uncover the hidden gems waiting in your glass.
