Other Varietals

While Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot dominate global wine shelves, the world has over 10,000 known grape varieties — and many of the most interesting wines come from the ones you've never heard of. 'Other Varietals' is the umbrella for these wines: indigenous Italian grapes like Nero d'Avola and Vermentino, Greek varieties like Assyrtiko, Portuguese Touriga Nacional, Indian Bangalore Blue, and countless regional blends that don't fit neatly into the major grape categories. With 358 products from 227 brands on LivCheers, this is one of the most diverse and exploratory wine sections on the platform.

The major grape varieties have become safe defaults — but they're also stylistic constraints. A Sangiovese from Tuscany, a Tempranillo from Rioja, a Pinotage from South Africa, or a regionally-blended Indian wine each offers a flavour profile and food-pairing potential that the big names simply can't replicate. For the curious drinker, this category is where wine gets genuinely interesting — and often, where the best value lives. Lesser-known grapes are typically priced below the prestige varieties despite often being grown more carefully and with more producer attention.

Start with what you know you like. If you enjoy bold reds with structure, try a Tempranillo or Touriga Nacional. If you prefer crisp whites with citrus, look at Albariño, Verdejo, or Vermentino. If you like aromatic, floral whites, try Torrontés or a Greek Moschofilero. The label often tells you the region — and the region usually tells you the style. With 358 options on LivCheers from 227 brands, the price range is enormous (₹up to ₹4,05,000), spanning everyday discoveries to rare collectible bottles.

Treat them by structure, not by name. Light reds (most Sangiovese, Bonarda) at 14–16°C — slightly cooler than full-bodied reds. Aromatic whites (Albariño, Vermentino, Torrontés) well-chilled at 7–9°C. Heavier whites (Verdejo, Assyrtiko) slightly warmer at 9–11°C to release the texture. The general rule: if a varietal is unfamiliar, serve it slightly cooler than you think — you can always let it warm up in the glass.