Italy overflows with good wines made from equally exceptional grapes. This country boasts the planet’s largest number of grape varieties (more than 200). Knowing this, it’s interesting to go on a search for delicious little treasures that are not Sangiovese or Neggiolo. Frappato is one of these. It’s an indigenous Sicilian grape often used in an assemblage with Nero d’Avola. This wine I suggest is made without additives and is not barrel-aged. It expresses all the aromatic profile of the grape. Nice complexity of berries, spices and freshness. Both rustic and refined. Pairs perfectly with antipasti such as sausages or grilled peppers and eggplant.

Tami Frappato, 2016, SAQ code 11635423, $19.60

Here’s another grape that’s relatively unknown, the Xinomavro, Naoussa appellation, from the estate Thymiopoulos, in Greece. It’s an exceptional terroir with a vintner who cares deeply about offering good wine. The result is a charming wine with a fruity, somewhat acidic first taste and a supple, juicy texture. Pairs well with lamb chops accompanied by dried tomatoes and black olives.

Domaine Thymiopoulos, Xinomavro Naoussa, 2015, SAQ code 12212220, $17.10

For red wine fans open to the idea of discovering a white-wine grape, Viognier is for you. Complex aromas, both mellow and having a nice liveliness. What’s more, Viognier works wonderfully well in an assemblage with a Syrah in the Côte-Rôtie appellation in the north of the Rhône valley. It is also grown in California and Australia, where it represents 70 per cent of white grapes grown there. The wine I suggest here results from the generational knowhow of the Miquel family of Languedoc. The wine, with its ample texture and nice length provides a taste of apricots and grilled almonds. It is enticing and entrancing! A wine that one wishes to drink with sushi, then follow with cookies featuring dried apricots and almonds.

Château Cazal Viel, Viognier, 2015,  SAQ code 895946, $16.45

Just remember, the best wine is the one you share. Enjoy your tasting experiences!