Five wines that stray from the norm

Sometimes left-of-center varietals beckon, with many whispering in your ear, wrestling for your attention. Perhaps your palate has simply grown tired of mainstream varietals like chardonnay and cabernet. Whatever the case, why not listen to those exotic whispers? The sampling here includes Malbec, carignane, arneis, petite sirah and mourvedre, and they won’t disappoint.

Porter Creek, 2014 Mendocino County Old Vine Carignane, 13%, $24. A lovely carignane with tangy fruit of cherry, pomegranate and currant. Bright acid. Top rate.

Alamos, 2015 Mendoza, Argentina Malbec, 13.5%, $10. A Malbec with nice backbone, yet manages to be fleshy. Aromas of anise and cherry follow through on the palate. Nice length.

Enotria, 2014 Mendocino County Arneis, 13.5%, $15. A refreshing quaffer with notes of pear, apple, anise and almond. Nice undercurrent of mineral. Well-crafted with layered flavors. Nice length. Lovely.

Langtry, 2013 Surpentine Meadow, Guenoc Valley, Petite Sirah, 13.7%, $40. A meaty, smoky petite sirah but it manages to have a supple texture. Notes of cranberry, mocha and tobacco. Lingering finish.

Cline, 2014 Contra Costa County Ancient Vines Mourvedre, 15%, $22. This is knockout, thanks to this Rhone red’s concentrated cherry flavors, and high-toned note of cranberry. Subtle flavors of plum, toast and chocolate are also at play, giving the wine layered appeal. Balanced, with good acidity. Nice length.