Recent data by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), shows that over 10,000 grape varieties exist across the globe, yet only 13 of them fill more than one-third of the world’s wine glasses. Most people stick with the same famous names; however, at Time For Wine, we take a different approach. We are committed to researching the history and revival of forgotten grape varieties that have nearly vanished from the map.
Our founders, Valerie and Tim, believe that wine should be a personal discovery. Valerie was already harvesting grapes in France at age six, so her connection to the land is deep. We use that expertise to find rare bottles that tell a unique story. Join us as we uncover these ancient treasures and bring their rich flavors back to your table.
1) The Great Disappearance of Wine Diversity
It is hard to imagine now, but the wine world used to be a lot more colorful. Hundreds of years ago, every little village in Europe had its own unique grape. These were varieties that had adapted to that specific soil and that specific weather over centuries. Then the 19th century changed everything.
A tiny pest called Phylloxera arrived from North America and started eating the roots of European vines. It was a disaster that wiped out nearly 70% of the vineyards in Europe. When it was time to replant, winemakers had to make a choice. They needed to survive. They chose to plant grapes that were easy to grow and easy to sell. This led to the rise of what we call the international varieties.
Grapes like Merlot, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon became the kings of the vineyard. They are wonderful grapes, but they pushed out thousands of others. We lost so much biodiversity during that time. Today, just 13 grape varieties account for more than one-third of all the vineyard area in the entire world. While there are more than 10,000 known varieties in existence, most of the wine we drink comes from a very small group.
2) Why the Revival is Happening Now
We are seeing a massive shift in the industry today. Winemakers and drinkers alike are looking back at the past to find the future. There are a few big reasons why these forgotten grapes are making a comeback.
First, there is the issue of climate change. Many of the famous grapes we love are struggling in the heat. They ripen too fast, or they lose their acidity. But the old indigenous grapes that were ignored for a century often have a secret strength. They are naturally resistant to drought, and they love the heat. They evolved in these specific spots for a reason.
Second, we see a growing hunger for authenticity. People are tired of drinking the same flavor profiles. We want something that tastes like a place and not just a brand. When we host our private tastings, we see the spark in people's eyes when they try something totally new. It is a sense of discovery that you just cannot get from a supermarket shelf.
Finally, there is the work of dedicated scientists and passionate farmers. There are people out there who are literally hunting through abandoned forests to find ancient vines. They take cuttings and bring them back to life in modern vineyards. It is a rescue mission for the soul of wine.
3) Meet the Comeback Stars of the Vineyard
These survivors were once on the brink of extinction but are now producing some of the most exciting bottles in our collection.
(I) Godello from Spain
In the 1970s, only a few hundred Godello vines remained. Farmers in Spain’s Valdeorras region had replaced them with high-yielding grapes for bulk production. Thankfully, visionaries saw its potential for white wines with incredible weight and mineral character. Today, it is a global favorite, offering the richness of Chardonnay with a distinct salty, citrusy finish.
(II) Pais from Chile
Brought to South America by Spanish missionaries, Pais was long dismissed as a "peasant grape." As Chile focused on exporting Cabernet, these ancient vines. Some, over 200 years old, were neglected. A new generation of winemakers has recently rediscovered them, producing light, "crunchy" reds full of bright fruit. It is the perfect summer red and a piece of living history.
(II) Saperavi from Georgia
Georgia, the "cradle of wine," has been fermenting grapes for 8,000 years. Saperavi is their legendary red. It is a rare teinturier grape, meaning it has both red skin and red flesh, resulting in an incredibly deep color and powerful tannins. Having survived the Soviet era’s industrialization, it is now celebrated globally as a powerhouse wine capable of aging for decades.
(III) Arneis from Italy
In Piedmont, Arneis was nicknamed the "little rascal" because it was so difficult to grow. It was often planted simply to distract birds away from the more "precious" Nebbiolo vines. By the 1960s, it had nearly vanished. Dedicated producers eventually saved it, revealing a beautiful white wine featuring notes of white peach and almonds.
4) The Time For Wine Mission
Our mission has always been to bring these rare finds to your table. We spend our time traveling and meeting with family-owned wineries that care about heritage. We look for the winemakers who are willing to take a risk on a forgotten variety because they believe in the land.
When we curate our collections, we are looking for more than just a high rating. We are looking for a connection. We want you to feel the same excitement we felt when we first tasted a revived variety from a small estate in Portugal or a hidden valley in France.
We know that there are so many names and regions to remember. That is why we focus on the experience. When you book a tasting with us, we bring the stories to you. We make it easy to explore the unknown without feeling lost.
5) Protecting the Future Through the Past
Preserving these grapes is about more than just having more options on a wine list. It is about protecting the genetic diversity of our planet. According to a study published in OENO One, Italy alone has over two thousand unique grape varieties, but only a small portion are used for commercial production. If we lose these grapes, we lose the ability to adapt to a changing environment.
Every time you choose a bottle of a rare variety, you are supporting a farmer who is keeping history alive. You are helping to ensure that the next generation of wine drinkers will have a world full of flavor and variety. We believe that the most exciting wines are the ones that haven't been discovered by the masses yet.
6) How to Start Your Own Journey of Discovery
You do not need to be an expert to enjoy these wines. All you need is a little bit of curiosity. The next time you are looking for a bottle, try to find a grape you have never heard of. Look for labels that mention indigenous varieties or heritage vines.
Better yet, let us do the work for you. We love putting together custom tasting experiences that focus on these hidden gems. Whether you are celebrating a milestone or just want a fun night with friends, we can tailor an experience that fits your needs. We bring the glasses and the wine and the stories, and you just bring the guests.
The revival of forgotten grapes is one of the most hopeful stories in the world of agriculture. It shows that even in a world of mass production and global brands, there is still room for the unique and the local. We are proud to be a part of this movement and we cannot wait to share our next discovery with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an indigenous grape variety?
It is a grape native to a specific geographic location, having evolved over centuries to perfectly suit the local soil and climate.
Why did these grapes almost go extinct?
The 19th-century Phylloxera plague wiped out most vineyards. During replanting, winemakers prioritized high-yield, "international" grapes like Merlot for economic survival.
Are forgotten grapes more expensive?
Not necessarily. Many offer exceptional value because they aren't yet "famous," though some are priced higher due to extremely limited production.
How do I identify a "forgotten" variety?
Check the back label for terms like "autochthonous," "heritage," or "indigenous." Curated collections from specialty consultants are also a great resource.
Do they taste different from standard wines?
Yes! They often feature unique profiles, such as wild herbs, exotic spices, or specific mineral notes not found in mainstream varieties.