Wine lovers often celebrate the household names—Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay—but beyond the mainstream is a vibrant cast of lesser-known grape varieties, each with its own story, terroir, and magic flavour. This blog is a toast to the unsung heroes of the vineyard.

Grapes such as Verdejo and Grenache, are some of the most versatile around the world. Verdejo white grapes have a rich history with a zesty personality that can give any seafood or chicken dish that satisfying finish. Grenache is a widely planted red grape around the world also, being one of the most versatile. Pairing beautifully with grilled meats, ratatouille, aged cheeses, and dishes with Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and thyme.

Here are some more unique wines to enjoy this summer:

Gruner Veltliner:

Winzer Krems Grüner Veltliner is a standout example of Austria’s signature white grape, offering a crisp, food-friendly profile with a strong sense of place. it has an aroma of Floral notes, white stone fruits (like peach), citrus, and a signature hint of white pepper, with a flavour of Light to medium-bodied, dry, with crisp acidity and herbal-mineral undertones. This wine pairs beautifully with Wiener Schnitzel, roast pork, white meats (chicken, veal), baked carp, and even light offal like sweetbreads.

Link: Discover the Delight of Wachau’s Austrian Wines

French Grenache 223:

Grenache 223 is a distinctive French red wine crafted by winemaker Xavier Roger, and it carries a unique story in both name and style, Its name The “223” refers to the number of days between bud break in spring and leaf fall in autumn—symbolizing the full lifecycle of the Grenache vine. For aroma it is Spicy and overt, with hints of white pepper, its palate consists of concentrated black cherry, liquorice, and a touch of garrigue (wild herbs typical of southern France). With a Soft, fruity, smooth, and generous mouthfeel texture. It pairs well with grilled and roasted meats, cheeses and appetisers, and even deserts.

Link: Discover Delight: Grenache 223 Wine at Waterside

Tuna Club Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc:

Tuna Club Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, refreshing white wine from Spain that blends two aromatic grape varieties—Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc. It has an aroma of fresh citrus, melon, and delicate herbaceous notes, a palate of crisp, and zesty, with a light minerality and a juicy, clean finish. It also pairs well with fresh seafood, grilled fish, sushi, or light salads.

Link: Tuna Club Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc 75cl – Waterside Wines

French Jean Didier Grande Reserve Cinsault Rose:

Jean Didier Grande Reserve Cinsault Rosé is a charming French blush wine that offers a delightful balance of fruitiness and freshness, for aromas expect soft summer berries—think strawberries and red currants. For the palate imagine crisp and steely, with a gentle touch of residual sweetness, giving it a smooth, rounded finish, and it best pairs with grilled chicken thighs (especially with a sweet BBQ rub), charcuterie, creamy white cheeses, salads, or dishes with sun-dried tomatoes.

Link: French Jean Didier Grande Reserve Cinsault Rose – Waterside Wines