With Halloween quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to start planning your spooktacular dinner party. Don’t forget the most important element of any dinner party – the wine! Choosing the right wine can enhance the flavors of your dinner and turn your spooky evening into a sophisticated soirée. At Payless Liquors, we have a wide selection of wines that will complement any Halloween-themed dish. Here are some of our favorite wine pairings for your Halloween dinner.

1. Cabernet Sauvignon for Steak or Ribs
Nothing says Halloween like a hearty meal, and there’s no better wine pairing for your steak or ribs than a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins in the wine complement the fat in the meat and bring out the flavors of your meal. We recommend trying a bottle of The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon – it has a rich, smoky taste that will perfectly complement your Halloween feast.

2. Pinot Noir for Pizza
Pizza is a classic dinner option for Halloween night, but don’t let its casualness fool you – this dish can be elevated by the right wine pairing. The acidic and fruity notes of a Pinot Noir work well with tomato sauce and melted cheese. Try a bottle of La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir – it’s smooth and easy to drink, making it a great option for a night of entertaining.

3. Chardonnay for Creamy Soups or Seafood
If you’re in the mood for a warm bowl of soup or some fresh seafood, a glass of Chardonnay is the perfect complement. The buttery and oaky notes in the Chardonnay bring out the creaminess of the soup or the sweetness of the seafood. We recommend trying a bottle of Butter Chardonnay – its smooth and creamy texture makes it the perfect wine pairing for these cozy Halloween dishes.

4. Malbec for Spicy Foods
Halloween night is all about the spice! Whether you’re making spicy chili or hot wings, a bottle of Malbec will help cool down the heat. The fruity notes in the Malbec help balance out the spice and can make your meal taste even better. We suggest trying a bottle of Alamos Malbec – its fruity and smoky notes complement the heat of your spicy Halloween dishes perfectly.

5. Prosecco for Dessert
A sweet dessert is the perfect way to end your spooktacular night, and a glass of bubbly Prosecco will make it even better. The fizziness of the Prosecco complements the sweetness of your dessert and its low alcohol content makes it a great option for after-dinner drinking. Try a bottle of Ruffino Prosecco – its citrus and floral notes make it the perfect dessert wine.

There you have it – our top wine recommendations for your Halloween dinner party. At Payless Liquors, we have a wide selection of wines for every occasion and every budget. Come visit us and our knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect wine pairing for your spooky evening. Cheers to a spooktacular Halloween!

Wine is a beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries, with its production dating back to ancient times. Despite its long existence, wine still holds many mysteries, especially when it comes to unconventional styles and regions. If you’re someone who has always stuck to familiar wine varieties, it may be time to explore some new and unconventional options. And what better way to do so than by visiting Payless Liquor Stores? So, grab your glasses and let’s embark on an exciting journey of Wine Adventures.

1. Why explore unconventional wine styles and regions?

The world of wine is diverse and fascinating, with countless styles and regions to discover. However, many people tend to stick to what they know, fearing that they will not like the taste of other unfamiliar varieties. But exploring new and unconventional wine styles and regions can be a rewarding experience that broadens your palate and exposes you to new flavors and aromas. It also helps you to appreciate the complexities and diverse cultural traditions of the wine world.

2. What are some unconventional wine styles and regions to try?

There are many unconventional wine styles and regions to explore, but we’ve highlighted a few to give you some inspiration. For example, Orange wine is a relatively new style in the wine world that uses white wine grapes and allows the skin contact to give it a unique flavor, texture, and color. It originates from regions such as Italy, Georgia, and Slovenia.

Another unconventional style to try is Pet Nat, a younger, bubblier, and less expensive alternative to Champagne, known for its fruity and floral aromas. You can find Pet Nat varieties from around the world, including France, Italy, and Australia.

When it comes to unconventional wine regions, you can’t go wrong with exploring the wines of the Balkans. This region has been producing wine for over 2000 years and is known for its unique flavors and aromas, many of which are not commonly found in Western wines. Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia are excellent places to start.

3. Why choose Payless Liquor Stores?

Payless Liquor Stores is a great place to explore unconventional wine styles and regions. They offer an extensive selection of wines, including many unconventional options that you won’t find at your local supermarket. Their knowledgeable staff can also guide you in your wine adventures, providing recommendations based on your taste preferences and budget.

4. Helpful Tips

When exploring unconventional wine styles and regions, it’s essential to keep an open mind and trust your taste buds. Start with small samples of various styles and regions to explore what you like and what you don’t. Wine tastings are a great way to discover new wines, as they allow you to try many varieties in one sitting and get a sense of the flavor profile. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the wine’s origin, production process, and cultural context.

If you’ve never ventured beyond your tried-and-true wine styles and regions, exploring unconventional options is a great way to broaden your wine knowledge and experience new flavors and aromas. Payless Liquor Stores is an excellent place to start, with its wide selection of wine varieties and knowledgeable staff. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a new favorite variety or region that you never knew existed. So, let’s raise a glass to Wine Adventures!

As wine enthusiasts, many of us have accumulated a collection of wine corks over the years. Instead of letting them gather dust in a drawer, why not get creative and find new ways to repurpose them? In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun and innovative ideas for giving your wine corks a second life. From DIY crafts to practical household items, you’ll discover that there’s so much more you can do with those humble wine corks.

1. Create a Cork Memo Board: Turn your wine corks into a stylish and functional memo board. All you need is a picture frame, some glue, and your collection of corks. Arrange the corks within the frame, securing them with glue, and voila! You now have an eye-catching memo board to display notes, photos, or reminders.

2. Craft Unique Coasters: Protect your surfaces in style by crafting custom wine cork coasters. Simply slice the corks into thin rounds and arrange them in a desired pattern on a flat surface. Glue them together, let dry, and you’ll have a set of unique coasters that will spark conversation during your next gathering.

3. Personalize Wine Glass Charms: Add a touch of charm to your wine glasses with personalized wine glass charms made from corks. Slice the corks horizontally, add decorative beads or initials, and attach a small loop of twine or ribbon. These charms not only keep track of your glass but also provide a rustic and personalized touch to any wine tasting event or party.

4. Design a DIY Bulletin Board: Transform an ordinary bulletin board into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece by covering it with wine corks. Cut the corks in half lengthwise, then glue them onto the surface of the bulletin board until it’s completely covered. This unique and visually appealing bulletin board will add a touch of wine-inspired elegance to your home or office space.

5. Crafty Kitchen Accessories: Get creative in the kitchen by repurposing wine corks into useful accessories. Slice a cork lengthwise and attach it to the end of a kitchen knife as a makeshift blade cover. Alternatively, glue corks together to create a trivet for hot pots and pans or use them as handles for homemade cheese knives.

Don’t let your wine corks go to waste! With a little imagination and creativity, you can transform them into beautiful and functional items for your home. These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg – there are countless ways to repurpose wine corks and unleash your inner DIY enthusiast. So, the next time you uncork a bottle of wine, remember that the cork itself holds endless possibilities beyond its original purpose. Give your wine corks a new lease on life and enjoy the satisfaction of turning something ordinary into something extraordinary.

Portugal is a country with a rich history and culture, and its wines reflect that heritage. From refreshing whites to robust reds, Portugal has a wide range of wines to suit any taste. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a journey through the varied wine regions of Portugal, discovering the unique flavors and styles that make each one special. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to expand your palate, join us as we explore the wines of Portugal, from Vinho Verde to Port.

Vinho Verde is a light, crisp white wine that is perfect for sunny days and light meals. Hailing from the northwestern region of Portugal, Vinho Verde (literally “green wine”) gets its name from the fact that it is often made from young, green grapes. The wine is fermented for a short time, resulting in a fresh, slightly effervescent wine with a low alcohol content. It pairs well with seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.

Moving south, we come to the Douro Valley, the oldest wine region in Portugal and the home of Port wine. Port is a fortified wine, meaning distilled grape spirits are added to the wine during the fermentation process, which raises the alcohol content and stops the fermentation, resulting in a wine that is sweet and high in alcohol. Port comes in a variety of styles, from dry to sweet, and is often enjoyed as a dessert wine. It pairs well with cheese, chocolate, and fruit.

Continuing south, we reach the Alentejo region, known for its full-bodied red wines. The hot, dry climate produces grapes that are rich and flavorful, resulting in bold, intense wines that are a perfect accompaniment to hearty meals. The wines of Alentejo pair well with grilled meats, stews, and other savory dishes.

Further south still, we arrive in the Setubal Peninsula, which is known for its sweet Moscatel wines. Made from the Muscat grape, Moscatel is a dessert wine with a honey-like sweetness and a floral aroma. It pairs well with fruit and cheese, as well as desserts like tarts and cakes.

Finally, we come to the island of Madeira, which produces a unique style of wine that is fortified like Port but aged for much longer. Madeira wine has a distinctive flavor, with notes of caramel, nuts, and raisins. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif or served with desserts like cake or pudding.

From the crisp Vinho Verde of the north to the sweet Moscatel of the Setubal Peninsula, the wines of Portugal offer a journey through the country’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Portugal’s varied wine regions have something to offer for every palate. So pour yourself a glass, sit back, and let the flavors of Portugal transport you to this beautiful country. Visit Payless Liquors to find your next favorite bottle!

Graduating from college or university is an incredible achievement that deserves a celebration. One way to celebrate this special occasion is by popping open a bottle of champagne. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Today, we will give you a guide to selecting the PERFECT champagne for your graduation celebration!

The History of Champagne

Champagne has been associated with celebration and luxury for centuries. It was first produced in the Champagne region of France in the 17th century and has since become the drink of choice for festivities all over the world! This includes weddings, birthdays, engagements, and of course, graduations.

How to Choose the Right Champagne for Your Celebration

When choosing the right champagne, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about your budget. Champagne ranges from affordable to pricey, so it’s essential to determine how much you’re willing to spend.

Next, consider the number of guests you’re expecting. For a small gathering, a standard-sized bottle should suffice. However, if you’re hosting a big party, consider buying a magnum or jeroboam, which can serve up to 20 people.

Finally, think about the food you’ll be serving. Champagne pairs excellently with seafood, cheese, and desserts like fruit tarts!

Food Pairing Suggestions

If you’re not sure what food to pair with your champagne, here are a few suggestions:

• Brut: Pair with seafood like oysters or sushi.
• Extra Brut: Goes well with salty snacks like chips and popcorn.
• Demi-sec: Pairs well with desserts like fruit tarts and chocolate cake.
• Doux: Serve with spicy or savory dishes like chicken curry or foie gras.

Celebrate Your Graduation with Champagne from Payless Liquor Stores

At Payless Liquor Stores, we have an extensive selection of champagne to choose from, including Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Perignon. We offer affordable options for those on a budget and high-end choices for those looking to splurge. Whatever your preference, we have the perfect champagne for your graduation celebration.

Celebrating your graduation with champagne is a special way to commemorate this significant achievement. With Payless Liquor Stores’ extensive collection, you’re sure to find the right one. So, raise a glass and make a toast to your accomplishments!

Craving a delicious meal paired with the perfect bottle of vino? Look no further than your local Payless Liquor Stores! Whether you’re looking to impress on date night or just want to treat yourself, there is something for everyone at our stores. With an incredible selection of wines and gourmet food items from across the globe, we have made it easy for you to create the ultimate food and wine pairing in the comfort of your own home. So break out the appetizers and uncork that bottle – we guarantee these pairings will be a match made heaven!

Exploring the Basics of Food and Wine Pairing

Food and wine pairing may seem like a daunting task, but once you grasp the basics, it becomes a fun and satisfying experience. The general rule of thumb is to pair lighter wines with lighter dishes and heavier wines with heavier dishes. For instance, a crisp white wine complements seafood or lighter pasta dishes, but a bold red pairs well with steak or a hearty stew. It’s also essential to consider the flavors and aromas of both the food and wine to ensure they complement each other. The right pairing can heighten the taste of both the food and the wine, elevating your dining experience to a whole new level. So grab a bottle of your favorite wine and start experimenting with different dishes to discover your perfect pairing!

Tips & Tricks on How to Select the Right Combination of Food & Wine

There’s nothing quite like the perfect pairing of a delicious meal with a complementary glass of wine. But with so many options to choose from, how do you know which combination is the right one? Don’t worry, there are some tips and tricks you can use to help make the decision easier. First, consider the intensity of the flavor of the food and wine. A light-bodied white wine will pair well with a delicate seafood dish, while a bold red wine would be better suited for a hearty steak. Also, don’t forget about the acidity level of both the food and wine. A high-acid food will pair well with a high-acid wine, while a low-acid food can pair with a wine with a lower acidity level. And finally, trust your own taste buds! While there are general guidelines to follow, everyone’s palate is different, so experiment and find the combinations that work best for you. Happy pairing!

Popular Dishes that Go Well With Different Wines from Payless Liquor Stores

Indulging in your favorite dishes is made even better when paired with the perfect wine, and Payless Liquor Stores have a range of options that will satisfy every palate. Whether it’s a bold Cabernet Sauvignon with a hearty steak or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with fresh seafood, there’s a perfect wine match for every dish. If you have a love for spicy cuisine, a bottle of Riesling will complement the heat and bring out the flavors in each bite. And for those with a sweet tooth, a dessert wine like Port or Moscato will perfectly accompany a rich chocolate cake or fruity tart. With the right pairing, every meal can become a luxurious dining experience.

The variety of choices at Payless Liquor Stores can be overwhelming, but the knowledgeable and friendly staff will be on hand to help you find exactly what you need. With the tips and tricks found in this blog post, you’ll have all the tools necessary for pairing food with wines from Payless. Host an impressive gathering by preparing a delicious, yet easy-to-make, dish using wines from Payless. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a full-blown party in your home, Payless Liquor Stores has everything you need to make any occasion special. Why settle for anything less than perfect when you can pick up all your favorite drinks there? If a bottle of wine is the missing piece to your evening plans, don’t hesitate – head over to Payless and get it today!

Wine, while traditionally a carefully crafted and expensive beverage, can be accessible to anyone with the right knowledge. From California craft wines to Spanish imports, there are countless bottles of deliciousness available at Payless Liquor Stores that won’t break the bank! Our guide to budget-friendly wine will help you discover the best value wines for your wallet and your palate. Whether you’re serving guests or simply pouring a glass for yourself on a weeknight, we’ll provide top tips on selecting vino that won’t bust your budget so you can savor every perfect sip without feeling guilty about breaking it.

Tips for Choosing the Best Value Wine from Payless

Choosing the right wine can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many options to choose from. But fear not, as there are ways to find the best value wines from Payless without compromising on taste. Firstly, do some research beforehand and check out the reviews and ratings of the wines you are interested in. This can give you an idea of what to expect in terms of taste and quality. Additionally, consider trying out lesser-known wine regions or grape varieties, as they can often offer great value for money. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from the staff at Payless. They are there to help and can provide valuable insights on the best value wines they have in stock. With these tips, you can confidently navigate the wine aisles and find the perfect bottle for every occasion.

Red Wines – A Great Choice to Impress Guests

Red wines are the perfect choice to impress guests at any dinner party or gathering. There’s something about the deep, rich hue of a glass of red that exudes sophistication and elegance. But it’s not just about the visual appeal – red wines offer a range of complex flavors and aromas that are sure to please any palate. From the fruit-forward notes of a Pinot Noir to the bold tannins of a Cabernet Sauvignon, there is no shortage of variety when it comes to red wines. So next time you’re hosting a dinner party, consider reaching for a bottle of red – your guests are sure to be impressed!

Try these wines:

• Cline Lodi Zinfandel

• Trivento Malbec

• Ravenswood Petite Sirah

White Wines – Perfect for Any Occasion

When it comes to wine, selecting the perfect one can be a daunting task. However, white wines are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a hot summer day, a romantic dinner date or a celebration with friends, you can never go wrong with a chilled glass of white wine. With a variety of flavors and styles, from crisp and refreshing to rich and buttery, white wines can complement any meal or stand on their own. So next time you’re unsure of what wine to choose, reach for a white and enjoy its versatility and delicious taste.

Try these wines:

• Starborough Sauvignon Blanc

• Leitz Eins Zwei Dry Riesling

• Decoy Sauvignon Blanc

All in all, Payless Liquor Stores offers a wide-ranging collection of value selections for every occasion. Whether you’re looking to make an impression on guests, serve the perfect glass of wine at an intimate get-together or simply stock your shelves with affordable wines, you can do so easily and confidently with our selection. With choices in red, white and rose varieties, we’re sure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for no matter the event. Visit us today and discover why we are your best choice to provide quality yet affordable wines! Rather than overspending on bottles that shy away from affordability and quality, turn to the experts at Payless Liquor Stores – guaranteed satisfaction awaits you!

The start of spring always brings a feeling of new beginnings, and this year is no exception. But what better way is there to welcome longer days, sunshine, and warmer temperatures than with a glass of rosé! At Payless Liquors we’re here to make sure your drinking adventures are as enjoyable and effortless as possible by offering an extraordinary selection of bottles. In this blog post, we will discuss four unique choices in rosé wines that you must try this season; each offering its own flavor profile so let’s dive right in!

Lancers Rosé 750mL

When it comes to finding the perfect drink to elevate your next dinner party or girls’ night, look no further than Lancers Rosé 750mL. This delicious wine boasts a refreshing and crisp taste, thanks to its blend of estate-grown white grapes and select red wine varietals. Its delicate pink hue is sure to impress, whether served on its own or paired with your favorite seafood or light pasta dishes. Plus, with a well-balanced sweetness and acidity, Lancers Rosé is versatile enough to enjoy year-round.

Moet Brut Rosé 750mL

Moet Brut Rosé 750mL is a sparkling wine that is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. This champagne boasts a beautiful, pale pink color and offers crisp notes of raspberry, cherry, and wild strawberries on the nose. Upon tasting, the wine offers a rich and flavorful experience, with a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness balanced out by a refreshing acidity. This is the perfect wine to celebrate special occasions, whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or just a night in with loved ones. Be sure to serve it chilled for an even more delightful experience.

Pommery Rosé 750mL

Pommery Rosé 750mL is the perfect bottle to impress your guests at your next soirée. This luxurious French champagne is a beautiful shade of pink, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious. With aromas of red fruits and a hint of spice, every sip is a journey to the south of France. The bubbles are delicate and refined, but still packs a punch with a crisp finish. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a glass at the end of a long day, Pommery Rosé 750mL is the ultimate treat for any champagne lover.

In conclusion, Payless Liquors has some of the best Rosé Champagnes on the market to choose from – the Lancers Rosé 750mL, the Moet Brut Rosé 750mL and the Pommery Rosé 750mL. These are all great quality champagnes for any occasion and all at an affordable price. So next time you’re shopping for a champagne or wine with a uniquely rich, light flavor profile, stop by Payless Liquors! Their knowledgeable staff can help you select from their range of quality products so that you walk away feeling satisfied with your purchase. Why wait any longer? Visit Payless Liquors today and get your favorite bottle of Rosé Champagne!

From fireplaces to blankets to curling up with our loved ones on the couch, nothing says winter like that warm feeling our bodies seek. There is something about those heavy sweaters that can remind you of comfort and relaxation. But something else happens when we experience these cold nights; our palates find themselves craving warm and full-bodied flavors. As the seasons move from barbecues in the backyard to the peaceful falling of snow, our stomachs crave those hearty winter meals. And what goes better with a good meal? A great glass of wine.

As the seasons change, it’s a great time to explore new flavors of wine. No matter what mood you may be in, certain wines fare better for the winter months. It should bring you warmth and comfort. Perhaps you prefer to stick to your favorite wine choices, but here are some suggestions if you’re ready to branch out.

Tips for Choosing a Wine

When choosing a wine for winter, you may find different characteristics of the wine that seem to just hit a little differently. Here are some suggestions to help you choose the one that is just right:

● Acidity | Wines that are higher in acidity tend to pair better with foods that are sweeter or contain more fat. From holidays to Super Bowl parties, you may find many of these types of foods more of a staple in the winter months. Wines that are higher in acid include Rieslings, Sauvignon Blancs, Chenin Blancs, Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Grenaches.

● Alcohol content | Not all wines are the same when it comes to alcohol content. In fact, the alcohol content in wine will help you determine if the wine is sweet or dry. Higher alcohol contents tend to indicate a dryer wine. When considering how to pair a wine with food, you will want to consider how dry a wine is. A great recommendation is to pair sweeter wines with more savory foods, as the counteracting qualities of each mean neither are too overpowering.

● Region of the wine | Where the wine comes from matters when picking the one that is right for you. The region of wine can play a part in its characteristics of it. As an example, a grape grown in cooler weather won’t ripen as quickly and leaves the resulting wine higher in acidity and lower in sugar. It is often recommended to pair your wine and food together based on region. If pasta is on the dinner plate, pour a glass of Italian wine to complement it.

Payless Liquors

If you’re not sure what to have this winter, stop into any Payless Liquors and let our team help you choose what’s right for you. Whether you’re ready to branch out from your usual, you’re making a favorite family recipe, or it’s a popcorn and movie night by the fire, we can help you pair the perfect wine for the perfect evening to leave you with all the warmth you need this winter.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to pull out all the stops and treat your special someone to an exquisite dinner. If you want that dinner to be truly memorable, then it needs the perfect pairing of food and wine. We’ve put together some suggestions for a Valentine’s Day feast that will make Cupid jealous!

Appetizer 

For a starter, what could be better than Roasted Tomato Bruschetta? This classic dish is best enjoyed with a light, crisp and slightly sparkling white wine – like an Italian Prosecco. It’s got just the right balance of fruitiness and acidity to complement the bright, tart flavor of tomato.

Dinner

For the main course, why not serve up a classic Surf and Turf? The big bold flavors of the steak need an equally robust wine, so a nice Cabernet Sauvignon will do the trick. With notes of blackberry, plum and spice, it’s sure to add that extra special something to your Valentine’s feast.

Dessert

Finish off the dinner with a decadent chocolate cake. To bring out the sweet, creamy flavor of the dessert, go for a Merlot or Riesling. These two varietals are a match made in heaven when it comes to helping you indulge your sweet tooth.

With these carefully selected wine pairings, your Valentine’s Day dinner will be truly special. You can be sure that it will make your date go weak at the knees!

Don’t forget to pour a glass of something bubbly, too – like champagne or sparkling wine – for a celebratory toast. Pour it into those fancy flutes and make this Valentine’s Day a night to remember! Find the perfect wine at Payless Liquors today.

Whether planning a romantic night at home with your partner, a dinner party among friends, or simply relaxing after a long day, choosing the perfect wine for your situation can be a complex process. The choices are seemingly endless, which may lead you to choose reliable and common options. However, there is a long list of underrated wines that also deserve your attention. If you are looking to branch out, try some of our wine recommendations below.

Gamay

Gamay is likened to Pinot Noir and is oftentimes referred to as the cousin of Pinot Noir because the Gamay grape is grown in France nearby world-renowned Pinot vineyards. Hailing from the Beaujolais region of Burgundy, Gamay holds its own within the region. This light red wine features an earthy, red fruit taste. Because Gamay is not aged, it is a more affordable option than Pinot Noir, which is aged for long periods.

Grüner Veltliner

Grüner Veltliner is a white wine almost exclusive to Austria. It is highly acidic with strong citrus flavors; thus, it is often enjoyed during the summer. It is compared to Sauvignon Blanc, but for only around $15 a bottle, it’s a much more affordable alternative to Sauvignon Blanc.

Tempranillo

Tempranillo features a bold, big, structured taste, like that of Cabernet Sauvignon. Tempranillo is a Spanish grape and is, in fact, one of Spain’s most prominent grapes. It is the predominant grape of the Rioja region, which is known for producing some of the best wines in Spain. It offers a dark fruit flavor, specifically black cherry, with notes of spice and tobacco. It pairs well with filet mignon or any steak or barbecue. Look for a label that says “Rioja” to know you have the right bottle.

Falanghina

Falanghina is an ancient wine grape that is grown off the Amalfi Coast in Campania, Italy, which borders the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its flavor is just how you would imagine it—full of essences of lemon, pear, apple, and orange blossom. If you like Chardonnay, you will love Falanghina. It pairs well with seafood but will also complement grilled chicken or even pizza.

Touriga Nacional

Made in Portugal, Touriga Nacional wines are full-bodied wines that are long-aged, much like Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo. Young wines from Touriga Nacional, however, are very tannic, which leaves the mouth feeling dry after you’ve sipped them. But if aged properly, these wines are soft and elegant. Expect a rich flavor full of blueberry, blackberry, plum, bittersweet cocoa, and subtle tones of stimulating mint with violet. Touriga Nacional wines, even when aged for a long time, are much cheaper than Cabernet Sauvignon. Pair them with bold dishes like a smoked meat sandwich, tripe stew, or grilled octopus.

If you’re a wine connoisseur, we know you will appreciate these underrated and lesser-known wine varieties. They hold their own in terms of flavor and structure and can make a beloved conversation fresh and new. Visit Payless Liquors for a fine assortment of underestimated wines, as well as all your traditional, well-known favorites.