Wine without Borders: How to Sip Your Way Around the World with Heinen’s

The following post was written by Heinen’s wine expert, Ed Thompkins.

Our continued quest to source new and exciting wines is not limited by borders! We’ve made it our mission to search the world for wines that provide the best representation of their region in both taste and value so that you can sip your way around the world, but only travel as far as your local Heinen’s.

In spanning the globe for compelling wines, we are lucky to visit a variety of international wineries and meet the producers in person. We’ve showcased diverse sets of wine from Spain and Portugal, Argentina and Uruguay, Canada and, most recently the Mediterranean. While these adventures are certainly fun, each region we visit is purposeful. We’re looking to source high quality wines from trusted wineries that accurately and deliciously reflect the region in which they’re made.

What we’ve learned is that while all of these regions produce amazing wines, each brings forth unique ideas for how wine and can be produced, enjoyed and paired for the most fulfilling tasting experience.

It is truly fascinating that the story of the people and the land can be captured in a bottle, but by developing direct contact with winemakers around the world, we are privileged to share their stories and world-class creations with you.

Our Wine Consultants look forward to personally introducing you to our past and future international discoveries, and we know that you too will taste the commitment and passion in each bottle!

Here are a few fan-favorite wines from our years of travel!

Henry of Pelham Riesling
This hands-on collaboration with our friends in the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario is a wine that is classically Riesling, which means it’s classically delicious! Refreshing notes of white flowers and lemon peel are accompanied by ripe green apple and melon and finished with a delicious sweet/tart character that you’ll enjoy as much as we do!

Best paired with Heinen’s French Brie.

Santa Julia Torrontes
Torrontes is a name that is rapidly becoming synonymous with the white wines of Argentina alongside its established red wine counterpart, Malbec. While there’s still debate regarding the origins of Torrontes, it is widely believed to be a cross between indigenous grapes that are related to the more common Muscat varietal. With a crisp and zesty finish, Santa Julia Torrontes showcases traditional intense floral aromas that are supported by flavors of ripe pear and citrus.

Best paired with Woolwich Goat Brie.

Guro Gold Red Blend
We can’t figure out what is more impressive about this Spanish red blend. Between the amazingly ripe and tasty fruit notes and the fact that it’s one of the best values in our Wine Department, there’s a lot to love! A blend of the native Monastrell, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, this smooth and juicy wine features spicy oak notes and enchanting red fruit flavors.

Best paired with Heinen’s Hot Chili Cheese Spread.

Confidencial Reserva Tinto
This red wine is a great introduction to the stunning values we discovered in Portugal. Made with native red grapes (Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz), along with appearances by Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, it shows surprisingly intense cherry/berry aromas and flavors. The juicy finish begs for another sip!

Best Paired with Heinen’s Smoked Gouda Cheese Spread.