When you step into an independent wine shop, such as Market Wines, you’re not just browsing bottles — you’re entering a space built around passion, hand-selected bottles, and a commitment to connecting you with wines that actually mean something. And if there’s one category that truly comes alive in a small shop, it’s Old World wines.
Why? Because Old World wines — those coming from Europe and the historic hubs of winemaking — are all about stories, traditions, and location. In a small shop, we get to handpick wines that reflect those stories, often from small family-run wineries, lesser-known varietals, and bottles that wouldn’t even appear on the shelves of a big-box retailer.
In this blog, we will explore what makes Old World wines special, how price plays into the equation, and why shopping at an independent wine shop is the best way to explore this fascinating world.
Old World Wines: A Quick Refresher
Old World wines come from regions where winemaking didn’t just start centuries ago — it helped shape the culture itself. Think France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Austria, and Greece. These are places where vineyards have been worked by the same families for generations, often using techniques passed down through the ages- ultimately making a difference in what you taste in the glass.
Old World wines tend to emphasize terroir — that sense of place where soil, climate, and tradition come together in the bottle. They lean more toward balance and elegance than bold, fruit-forward styles. If New World wines are about power, Old World wines are about nuance.
Old World Varietals: What You’ll Find in Market Wines
One of the joys of being an independent wine shop is curating wines that tell a story. Introducing you to both the classics and the hidden gems: it’s one of the greatest joys of working at Market Wines. Here are a few varietals we love to showcase when it comes to Old World wines:
France
• Bordeaux: Structured, elegant, can be aged. We are loving the Grand Verdus Bordeaux- a blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot this 2016 vintage over delivers. And, for under $35, it would be a great addition to your shelf.
• Burgundy (Pinot Noir) : Earthy, subtle, endlessly complex. A great example of this is the Domaine Pavelot Bourgogne. The family has been making wine for hundreds of years and this Pinot Noir is a great introduction to Burgundy and the interesting flavours and profiles that come out of the region.
• Chardonnay (Burgundy & Champagne): Mineral-driven, refined, a far cry from buttery New World styles. We absolutely adore the Boisson Frere et Soeur Macon Bray. The history this family has in winemaking goes back more than two centuries and they love to sell locally and privately, allowing them to fly under the radar. This one is not to be missed and we are lucky to have allocation of this wonderful wine.
Italy
• Sangiovese (Tuscany): Bright cherry fruit, herbal notes, and that food-friendly acidity Italians do so well. A great example of this grape varietal is the Poggio Petroso Chianti Classico which is hand harvested every October. Pretty special, we think, plus under $35, it’s a great lead in to try this wonderful varietal.
• Nebbiolo (Piedmont): Bold tannins, aromas of roses and tar. We love Marengo and the Marengo Nebbiolo is a great example of why we love this producer. Marengo holds some of the finest, south-facing, mid-slope vineyards in Brunate. The Marengo estate has been around since 1899 and their wines tend to fly under the radar (they don’t even have a website), so trying these wines is a distinct honour. If you know Marengo, then you know.
• Pinot Grigio (Veneto): Forget the watery versions — good Old World Pinot Grigio has texture, minerality, and serious character. One of our top selling wines has quickly become the Pinot Grigio from Gregoris. This family-run winery has been making balanced and elegant wines for generations. Here you will find non-intrusive wine making methods which allow for less harmful chemicals to be used- all in all- better for you and the wine tastes delicious! For under $20 this wine is a must try.
Spain
• Tempranillo (Northern Spain): Red fruit, tobacco, leather, often with long oak aging for depth. One of our favourite Spanish producers is Ochoa- a family that takes great pride in tending to their vines 365 days a year. The Ochoa Tempranillo Crianza is a great example of how the family prides itself on hand making the wine. Give it a try at under $30.
• Albariño (Rías Baixas): Crisp, saline, perfect for seafood or sunny afternoons. Spain has some incredible white wines with grapes that are native to the area. The Pentecostes Albarino is a great example of what wines in the area can do. The vineyards are on steep, terraced slopes and are farmed in the most natural manner possible. A definite must try on your next visit to Market Wines.
The Price Conversation: Old World Wines for Every Budget
One of the biggest myths we hear is that Old World wines are expensive or intimidating. That couldn’t be further from the truth — especially at Market Wines, where we take pride in finding affordable gems alongside the trophy bottles.
Why Shopping Small Matters: The Independent Shop Advantage
When you buy Old World wines from an independent shop, you’re getting more than just the wine itself — you’re getting context, connection, expertise, and community.
Here’s what sets our shop apart:
• Curation: Every bottle on our shelf has a reason for being there. We taste, we research, we build relationships with importers and winemakers who specialize in small producers. Yes, that’s right, we are travelling to the wineries to bring you the best.
• Stories: Want to know about the 5th-generation family behind that Beaujolais? Or the volcanic soil that shapes that Sicilian red? We love sharing these details with you, that you can then pass on at your next dinner party. It’s really about building a community of wine lovers.
• Discovery: Big-box stores carry what sells at scale. We carry what we believe in — and that often means introducing you to varietals and regions you might never find otherwise. But be bold, and give it a try. You will be pleasantly surprised.
The Joy of Exploration: Finding Your Old World Style
Whether you’re new to Old World wines or ready to dive deep into a specific region, the beauty of Market Wines is the journey itself. We love helping customers find their palate — maybe you love the rustic charm of Chianti, or the polished elegance of Chablis. No matter the bottle, you can trust our expert staff to guide you towards a bottle you will love.
Ready to Explore?
If you’re curious about Old World wines — whether you’re looking for a Tuesday night bargain or a bottle to lay down for a decade — come visit us. We’re passionate about taking the intimidation out of Old World wine and replacing it with curiosity, excitement, and a sense of adventure.
Want to learn more? Explore our tastings, some of which focus on Old World wines. Here you will have a chance to learn more about these exciting varietals in more detail.
The Old World is full of history — but the best part is that its story continues every time you pop a cork. Let us be a part of your story. Come see us at Market Wines.