Wine is certainly one of the more sophisticated forms of alcohol that one can enjoy and it has been played an integral part in human history. Wine and wine-making can trace its roots all the way back to around the Stone Age and it certainly has evolved into one of the most important forms of alcohol. Today the worlds best wine comes from areas in Italy or France, however new regions to grow and produce wine are popping up all around the world. Outside of the process that goes into fermenting grapes used for wine, the location and types of grapes are an important and integral part of a wine’s formula. There are many new areas on the rise that are producing wine, and we are going to take a look at five up and coming wine regions.
Yarra Valley – Australia
Australia has seen many new wineries and vineyards pop up in recent years, and many of them come from the Yarra Valley region. The Yarra Valley is about an hour northeast of Melbourne and its cool temperature and mineral-rich soil deliver some pretty great wines. There are over 100 wineries in this valley and they primarily produce pinot noirs and chardonnays.
Mt. Etna – Sicily
While many Italian wines come from mainland Italy, Sicily has seen a rise in wine production, especially from wineries around Mt. Etna. Here grapes are grown at elevations between 2,000 to 3,500 which make for a unique tasting wine that are extremely distinctive.
Tokaj – Hungary
The Tokaj region of Hungary has seen an influx of wineries over the years that are producing very unique and great tasting wines. The combination of grapes only known to the area, the higher elevation, and the areas volcanic soil yield some pretty amazing wines that are worth checking out.
Maule Valley – Chile
Chile is home to some pretty great wines that come from the countries unique terrain and climate. The Maule Valley region is located in about the center of the country and they have recently seen an influx of wineries and vineyards that have flocked to this area.
Lodi – California
California is also known to produce some quality wines, and while most come from the Nappa Valley region, many are coming to Lodi to grow wine. The weather is perfect and the land is fertile and inexpensive. All of those factors lead to some great wines that you have to keep an eye out for.
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