|
|
The Magic of the Mediterranean
Mediterranean adj. of or characteristic of the Mediterranean Sea or the regions bordering on it. n. the Mediterranean Sea, a sea lying between Europe and North Africa.
Much of winemaking history began in around this famous sea. Since classical times, wines were produced in most countries bordering the Mediterranean and there is documentation of amphorae* of wine regularly crossing the waters.
Today the Mediterranean region, marked by a climate of warm dry summers and mild winters, is home to some fascinating wines that while encompassing many different countries, share several things in common. First, the warmer climate of this region produces wines that are generally higher in alcohol than wines produced in cooler climates or continental growing regions. In fact, wines produced during classical times were so strong that they were not only fermented completely through natural fermentation, there was often considerable residual sugar in the wines. This was surely powerful plonk! Second, the region is home to a higher percentage of red grape varieties than white. The reason for this is simple - red grapes generally need more heat to ripen than whites. The climate of the Mediterranean provides that. And third, while many wines produced in Continental climates are produced from a single grape variety, wines from the warm Mediterranean tend to blend several grapes to craft their wines.
There is a wide selection of wines available from many countries, regions and appellations that border the Mediterranean and a visit to a quality-minded wine shop will open your palate to an exciting range of flavors. While the following list is only a teaser, let it be your gateway to the wines of the Mediterranean.
Bandol, France: The vineyards of this resort and fishing port are truly breathtaking; vines are cut high into the cliffs and tumble down to the Mediterranean sea. While white wine is produced in this French appellation, it is the red wines, produced with a blend that includes Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre that are considered the greatest in all of the region of Provence. Deep colored, lush and flavorful, these are wines that while they may be consumed when young, will reward the collector. Look for the wines of Domaine Tempier.
Penedes, Spain: The Penedes region is the largest and most imported wine zone in Catalonia. While the region produces more sparkling wine than the entire Champagne region of France, the increased quality of red wines remains very exciting. The most important producer of Penedes wines is the firm of Torres. Miguel Torres was originally trained as a winemaker in Bordeaux and today his family firm is responsible for some of Spain's and the world's greatest wines. The Mas la Plana, usually made from just Cabernet Sauvignon competes with other world-class Cabernet wines.
Greece: Wine has been made in Greece for over 4000 years and it is safe to say that it is in this region of the Eastern Mediterranean that the story of wine began. Today Greece is the world's 15th largest wine producing nation and is home to a range of wines crafted from both native and classic European varieties. Recently there has been much investment in both the vineyards and wineries. These wines are well suited to Greek and classic Mediterranean cuisine's. Look for producers such as Boutari, Achaia-Clauss, Cambas.
Bekaa Valley, Lebanon: This Middle East country is one of the oldest sites of wine production and today the wine world would give not much thought to its offerings if it were not for one producer - Chateau Musar. Produced just 15 miles from Beirut, the wine has been produced since the mid-1930's in most vintages even when the country was in the throws of civil war. Made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Cinsault grapes, Musar is considered one of the great wines of the world.
*amphora: singular of amphorae. A vessel, with two handles used to transport wine and other liquids throughout classical antiquity.
|
|
