What makes the wine industry great is that it’s massive and can always offer something new.
However, the current wine market size also comes with a slight disadvantage, as there is a promising selection of wines that often go unnoticed. They are mostly dubbed underrated wines, bottles that were not given enough spotlight despite their exceptional quality due to lack of exportation and saturated market.
Prepare to expand your wine choices. This list explores five underrated wines that stand out for their quality and value appreciation potential.
Criteria for Selection
You might wonder what factors were considered in creating this list of the best “underrated wines.” Yes, it’s more than selecting lesser-known labels. Below are the consideration items to ensure that all bottles are a good candidate for value and quality growth.
- Vintage Quality: The year the grapes are picked is vital to determine the wine’s longevity and profile over time.
- Wine Region: Regions with strong terroir will likely continuously gain attention despite market shifts.
- Market Trends and Expert Ratings: Expert insights are a good starting point for determining which wines are of excellent quality and could thrive in the market.
- Aging Potential: Underrated wines in this list have aging potential, so they tend to develop flavours and improve over time.
The List of Underrated Wines
1. Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5° (Spain)
You might have heard of Vega Sicilia from its prestigious Unico 2008, but did you know there’s another gem from this Spanish winery? The Valbuena 5.
Since its release, Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5 has received strong ratings for its earthy hints and rich tobacco, plum, and black cherry notes. Many find this bottle of wine a perfect pairing with grilled meat, mushroom risottos, and aged cheese.
With Unico’s rise, the Valbuena 5 also shows potential for appreciation and demand in the market, making it a good choice for collectors.
2. Ch La Mission Haut Brion Blanc 2019 (France)
The region of Bordeaux is usually known for its red wines. However, this underrated wine, Château La Mission Haut Brion Blanc, is trying to challenge this by getting into the spotlight with its outstanding quality and aging potential.
This 2019 white wine opens with fresh aromas of citrus, green apple, and honey with floral undertones. It has a full to medium body and a refined texture that lingers on the palate. They are best paired with seafood and poultry dishes or creamy pasta.
Critics believe this white wine bottle has yet to fully reveal its depth and potential, so getting it at a wine store near you could be a great decision.
3. Zenato Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato (Italy)
If you want a balanced profile and a Veneto red to add to your collection, this Sergio Zenato could be the perfect bottle.
This wine offers an elegant and sophisticated Italian wine experience. It combines dark berries, figs, and chocolate aromas, silky tannins balanced by zesty acidity, and a fruity and nutty aftertaste.
Sergio Zenato pairs beautifully with rich foods like braised meats, aged Parmesan, and game dishes. This 2016 wine also has an exceptional aging potential of 20+ years.
4. Cloudburst Cabernet Sauvignon (Australia)
From Europe to Australia, this Cloudburst Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Margaret River and is relatively new in the market but is already highly rated. Its layer of black currant, cedar, and dark chocolate with hints of fresh herbs could describe why this bottle is making a good impression among critics.
This 2018 vintage is best paired with steak, lamb, or charcuterie; these dishes can bring out its bold character.
Meanwhile, the limited production of Cloudburst Cabernet Sauvignon and the winery’s growing market popularity make the bottle a rare find and a good investment.
5. Billecart-Salmon Cuvée Louis Blanc de Blancs 2009 (France)
This next bottle is from Champagne, known for the best sparkling wines, like Dom Perignon. Maybe that’s one reason why the likes of Billecart-Salmon Cuvée Louis Blanc de Blancs are often overlooked. But it doesn’t remove the fact that this 2009 vintage is a standout, as it’s made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes.
It is fantastically complex and balanced, with notes of almonds, frangipani, dried lemons, apricots, pastries, and white chocolate. Its creamy, fine bubbles and a hint of salty taste make it excellently paired with oysters, caviar, or creamy cheeses.
There is no need to worry about appreciation, as this bottle is a reputable choice. With the popularity of vintage champagne, there is no doubt that it will grow in value and quality.
Uncovering Hidden Gems in the World of Wine
Investing in underrated wines opens a new kind of experience. It will expose you to unique flavours and quality that are often overlooked, accessible bottles with growth potential, and other opportunities for personal enjoyment.
Learning about these underrated wines can also help you expand your wine knowledge and collection. So, if you want to learn more about underrated wines, don’t hesitate to visit a trusted wine shop in Singapore, such as Crystal Wines.
We are a leading wine wholesaler in the country, trusted by over 70 wine agencies worldwide.
You also don’t need to shop in-store as you can buy wines online from us. We offer wine delivery within Singapore.