Wines of italy. Sylvaner: This is a variety whose origins may be German.
Wines of italy Need wine insprirations? Read our blog article about the p The Wines of Southern Italy. It is one of the best young Barolos I have ever encountered. 2004; Colacicchi and Parotto 2006), some areas of Tuscany , Abruzzo , Campania and Sicily have been selected and described in this chapter. Be sure to try several while you explore Italy’s great wines. Today, Fiano di Avellino DOCG is made by several producers using traditional methods. On the high end, wines offer notes of preserved sour cherries, dried oregano, balsamic reduction, dry salami, espresso, and sweet tobacco. There are great Italian wines under $30 – or even $20! Here’s a list of the top affordable wine brands from Italy. The region is known particularly for its sparkling wines made in the Franciacorta and Oltrepò Pavese areas. While Italy has 350 registered grape varieties, The main airports you can fly to to reach wineries in Italy from north to south are: Milano Malpensa (MXP) - great to reach wineries in Piemonte and Lombardy Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) - close to Franciacorta and Veneto Venezia Marco Polo (VCE) - perfect to reach wineries in Veneto and wineries in Friuli-Venezia Giulia (and also to visit Venice!) Bologna Marconi Airport (BLQ) Red wines dominate our Top 100 Italy list with 80, alongside 16 whites and just four sparkling wines, three of which are rosés. The book Wine Grapes identifies 377 unique indigenous wine grapes in Italy. We carry unique, hard-to-find One of the most interesting wineries in Sardinia gives us a Vermentino sui generis, fresh and inviting, of great recognition. Predictably Tuscany and Piedmont feature heavily with all four 100-point wines coming from Tuscany – three Brunellos followed by a world-beating SuperTuscan. - Philosopher Andrea Bacci. In my last post NOTABLE REGIONS: France (Bordeaux, Médoc), Italy (Tuscany and Friuli) California (Napa Valley and Sonoma County), Chile, Australia, Argentina, Spain, South Africa Wine type description: Among the most important red wine types, Cabernet Sauvignon, obtained from the homonymous black grape variety native to Bordeaux, (France) cannot be missing. Lombardy wine is the Italian wine produced in the Lombardy region of north central Italy. The wine was granted DOCG status in 2003, making it one of Italy’s highest-quality wines. But between these extremes lay a bounty of delicious, moderately priced wines that belong in Unlike most Italian wine regions, Todi is particularly fond of Merlot and uses it in both blends and standalone bottles. Rome is a must for every traveler in Italy, from first-time visitors to seasoned veterans. [1] Along with the Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige, the Friuli-Venezia Giulia forms the Tre Venezie wine region, which ranks with Tuscany and Piedmont as Italy's world class wine regions. Liguria is the second smallest wine region in Italy. Made with a minimum of 70% Sangiovese grapes, a wine calling itself Chianti is allowed to be made almost anywhere in Tuscany, and the entire region is divided into seven sub-zones, with the renowned Chianti Classico being its historical heartland. Nonethless, Liguria remains the region with the second-lowest output of wine in WINE. via Canva 8. The Italian Wine Scholar ® program sets the industry standard as the most detailed and comprehensive certification program devoted entirely to the wines of Italy. A wine tour in Italy offers a unique chance to experience the country’s beautiful countryside whilst enjoying the finest wine and food – and this is no ordinary wine and food, it’s some of the very best on the planet. The region is famous for its production of red wines made from the Aglianico grape, as well as white wines made from the Fiano grape. The wines are typically light and fresh, with mineral hues, good acidity, and aromas of citrus, fruit, and dry flowers. The greatest number of wines on our Top 100 list come from Tuscany (41), followed by Piedmont (19), the Northeast (15), Sicily (9), Veneto (8), Campania (6), and Sardinia and Umbria with one each. – James Suckling, Editor/Chairman. Secondly, Piedmont (Piemonte) is considered a top wine region in Italy (like Tuscany). Note: The list of wines below is comprised of bottles tasted and rated in 2023 by the tasters at JamesSuckling. The Grenache grape originates from wine regions in Australia, France, Spain and the United States. Scenes from an Italian Wines of Kings imports and delivers high-end European wines directly to individuals. Where is Lombardy wine region? Lombardy is one of the largest regions and the industrial engine of Italy located in the north of the country with Milan as a regional capital. ” Chianti wine (“kee-on-tee”) is a red blend from Tuscany, Italy, made primarily with Sangiovese grapes. Italy produces around a quarter of the entire world’s wine. Each year’s Top 100 offers insights on tradition and innovation in wine regions around the globe, from new trends and emerging players to familiar Northern Italy is the heartland of Italian sparkling wine, and the home to three distinct styles: Prosecco, Franciacorta and Asti Spumanti! Since these are the classic examples of Italian sparkling wine, let’s dive into each style a little further Prosecco. Umbria, in central Italy, is a region of lush rolling hills, hilltop villages and iconic, Twin Threat for Italian Wine. Chianti wine is a red blend from Chianti, a small region in Tuscany, Italy. You may have heard of me if you’re a fan of Italian wine and over sixty. Moving towards the center of the peninsula, in Dante’s land, we find Brunello di Montalcino, considered, together with Barolo, the Italian red wine with the Italian wine types reflect a rich tapestry of cultural history and geographical diversity. History – First vines (800BC), unification (1863), DOCs (1963) Climate and Geography – Warm Mediterranean. Given its reputation for unrivaled food, architecture and art, it may surprise you that wines from Lazio – the region surrounding Rome – have not historically been considered among the best wines in Italy. From the outstanding variety of the Italian terroirs and related high-quality wines (Biancotti et al. Ours is a wine shop specializing in online wine sales. It is home to handful of popular and well-known wine styles including the bright, cherry-scented Valtellina and the high-quality sparkling wine of Franciacorta and Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico. Some of great wines of Italy are Barolo, Asti, Chianti, Major wine-province – centre of very north of Italy (capital Milan). Esoteric wines are less common, but not necessarily more exclusive. SmoothRed’s unique Italian wine tours can take you to all corners of this beguiling and unique country. Let’s begin with some basic terminology for understanding the different wines and wines regions in Italy. 2003; Cita et al. Ah, Italia! One of the most picturesque countries in the world, and that’s saying a lot! Rome. The romance and diversity of Italian wine has made worldwide icons of its most famous bottles (think Chianti, Barolo, Amarone), but buying it can often feel a little confusing – so let's make it easier! Italy's Top Wine Regions . 1). The denomination and Italy's wines can often seem to be a chaotic jigsaw, with multiple grape varieties in a multitude of regions and appellations (and few countries can boast such a comprehensive vineyard area – it literally stretches the length and breadth of the country), but when it comes to the very top wines, there are really only two regions we need concern ourselves with. These bottlings come from every corner of the country: Sicily in the south; Tuscany in the center; and Piedmont and Friuli-Venezia Giulia in the country’s north. It has a long tradition of wine making stretching back over 2500 years. Learn the basics of how to read an Italian wine list to order wine with confidence. The Wines of Umbria. Tuscany was I have been exploring, reading and writing about the wines of Italy for a couple of years now. Common tasting notes include red fruits, dried herbs, balsamic vinegar, smoke, and game. Negroamaro, Primitivo, and Malvasia Nera – all red – are the three main grapes grown here. The minimum of 90% Barbera grapes must be used in its production, while the other 10% may Wine is an intrinsic part of Italian culture, with a wide range of wine offerings famous worldwide. After all Italy represents the best of the world wine scene and can boast a centuries-old Toscana (Tuscany) is the quintessential image we all have of Italian wine country – rolling hills, olive trees, umbrella pines and of corse, vines, lots of vines. This can be traced back to the 7th Century BC from remnants of wine amphora that have been excavated in the region. com. The Paolo Scavino family has been making structured and polished Barolos for decades and the winery is now run by two sisters, Enrica and Elisa. Regarded as one of the premier countries for wine, Italy is home to 18 of the wines on our Best of the Year list. It is composed of two separate units, that can be studied in any order:. Italians own the spread of Vinification of the grape to the Romans. Media in category "Wines of Italy" The following 91 files are in this category, out of 91 total. New Guides: Discover delicious Italian wines and beautiful regions in Wine Folly’s Learn about Italy's diverse wine regions, grapes, and styles with Wine Folly's comprehensive guide. Italy is renowned for its diverse regional cuisines, and our Italian wine guide showcases the incredible variety of native grapes. Better-known wines are: Valtellina (hardy red), Franciacorta Pinot (white wine), Franciacorta Rosso (red wine), Lugana (delicate white) TUSCANY Located in central Italy (capital Florence). Alison Napjus; Jan 9, 2025 Wine of the Week. The heart of Italy and in many ways its wine trade too, this area is home to some of the most famous and celebrated regions in the country such as Chianti and Montalcino; but while the sangiovese grape is king here, there’s plenty more The two most popular and widely available wines from Puglia are Salice Salentino and Primitivo. A peacock tail wine, fully among the top Italian wines for complexity, elegance and character. The rise in Prosecco’s popularity over the past few years has been astronomical. Top Affordable Italian Wines Under $20 1. Its capital and largest city is Naples (Napoli). The LCBO takes you on journey through the wine styles of Central Italy. Looking to discover the best wine regions in Italy?. There are 59 regions in Piedmont (including Barolo, Campania is located in the southern part of the Italian peninsula, facing the Tyrrhenian Sea, in what might be called the shin of the peninsula’s boot. Italian wine (Italian: vino italiano) is produced in every region of Italy. An Italian wine label provides critical information for understanding what to expect before you open the bottle. Try several varieties: Italy has over 500 unique varieties. Let’s explore the terroir of the Puglia wine region, subregions, Puglia wine styles, food pairings, best bottles to buy in 2024, and the famous Puglia wine producers. Also noteworthy is a historic, sweet, high-alcohol dessert wine, made with Aleatico grapes, called Aleatico di Puglia. Located in central Italy along the Tyrrhenian coast, Tuscany is home to some of the world's most notable wine regions. Throughout the Roman Empire, wine became part of the daily diet, particularly for the upper-class. Order now and taste the best of Italy at home. Veneto, Tuscany, and Piedmont are likely regions you’ve heard of, Explore the map of Italian wine regions and major wine varieties. And this is because Italy has 20 wine regions! Let’s go over the top five regions you need to know: Piedmont Located in northwest Italy, this region sits at the foot of the western Alps. In this article we will look at the most important wines from Tuscany that have obtained DOCG (Denominazione d'Origine Controllata e Garantita - Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin) recognition. Muscat wines have been part of the Italian wine scene for centuries. The estate is spread across nearly 5,000 acres of Val d’Orcia – a Unesco World Heritage Site famed for its beauty – making it one of the largest in the region. Tannic wines of Italy: in the centre, Brunello di Montalcino. Our Italian wine guide will help you understand the key regions and wine styles of Italy. The arc of the Italian wine industry bends towards quality in the 21st century, something that has become increasingly clear to Sue and me as we have visited many of Italy's important wine regions in recent years. Grapes: Glera. The grapes are sun-dried for approximately fourteen days and are then fermented and aged. Casual winemaking had already existed for centuries, thanks to the ideal growing Very few Italian wines are known around the world. Italy is the country with the widest variety of indigenous grapevine in the world, with an area of 702,000 hectares (1. Tuscany. Be sure to decant: It’s a great Italy – Marches, Abruzzi, Molise Wine production and wine production styles • 8% of Italian production • Mainly dry white and red wines • Cool climate gives scope for innovative wine-making • Most important wines – Barbera d’Asti (DOCG) is an Italian red wine produced on the hilly vineyards in the provinces of Asti and Alessandria in Piedmont. Join Michael Fagan in part two of a three-episode series exploring the wines of Italy Featuring more than 2,000 wines and producers—from the great names to lesser-known makers that deserve attention—this is the most invaluable A-to-Z guide to Italian wines produced. From Tuscany to Piedmont, our collection of Italian wines capture the unique character and flavors of each region with the finest reds and crisp whites. At the end of our journey through vineyards and cellars, which again this year took us from the Aosta Valley to the island of Pantelleria to compile the Italian Wines Guide 2025 by Gambero Rosso, we can affirm that The wines of Liguria. The broader area comprising Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol is known collectively as the Tre Venezie, after the Republic of Venice. The city also has an active wine culture, with plenty of events throughout the year. Check our presentation of the different vineyards and wines of MUSCAT WINES OF ITALY In addition to being one of Europe’s most important wine producing countries, Italy is one of the oldest. This is because there more than 350 common indigenous wine grape varieties in Italy. Milan is home to many wine-related businesses, including wineries, vineyards, and food and drink companies. Olives and grapes dominate the countryside, and the region supplies almost half of Italy's olive oil production, as well as a great quantity of red wine made from Primitivo and. Italy is a universe unto itself when it comes to sheer quality and diversity of wine but even in this old bastion, there are some ferments that sit at the very top for depth of flavour and stellar character. Italian wine is known and loved for its diversity of styles. While Italy has done a lot to modernize (and simplify) in recent decades, to the non-enthusiast wine drinker, Italian wines outside of the major areas like Piedmont and Tuscany can still elicit a The site of the best wines of Italy. 28-Jul-2023. This results in And it certainly helps that the 2015 vintage is the greatest ever for Brunello and a new benchmark for Italian wines. it: since 1999 your online wine shop to buy the best Italian wines . jpg 1,464 × 1,683; 500 KB "15 - ITALY - DOCG and DOC wine mark. Set in Turin’s dynamic OGR cultural center, the two-day event on 27-28 January 2025 promises to be fully immersive journey into the finest DOCG and DOC My name is Burton Anderson. Off of the Italian mainland, Cannonau di Sardegna come from the Italian island of Sardinia. Proudly representing small-scale heroes of viticulture, we import unique, high quality wines from Italy, France and Spain. The rich diversity of landscapes, terroirs, and grape varieties across Italy’s mainland and islands offers a truly exhilarating variety of wine styles. Written by a Master of Wine and a leading expert on Italy, it provides star ratings to recommend key wines and gives up-to-the-minute vintage reviews for each region. The ruby-red Aglianico-based wines are typically full-bodied with aromas of dark fruit such as blackberry, currants, and plums that are often accompanied by notes of spices, undergrowth, and tobacco. This wine is made from Nebbiolo grapes and it is indeed the most preferred Italian red wine This red Italian wine is made with 100% Sangiovese grapes, and it is produced in the vineyards surrounding the town of Montalcino. Americans love Italian wines for its diversity of styles, protection of indigenous varieties, food-friendliness and, quite often, great value. You may have a difficult time finding the Todi label on wine bottles due to its new status as a region. Once quantity focused, the region now has winemakers who want to show the world how amazing Apulian wines can be. These dry, ruby-red wines have been praised Northern Italy’s old vines and steep, high-altitude vineyards give this varietal wine great ageing potential and serious character. Tourists know Campania for the city Frascati. It’s remarkable wines boast a fruit-forward character, refreshing acidity, and fine tannins. Known for one of the most popular and famous Italian red wines – Vinsanto is a dessert wine hailing from Santorini. 73 million acres) under vineyard cultivation, as well as the world's second largest wine producer and the largest exporter as of 2023 See more Italy's vineyards are home to more than 2,000 grape varieties, many of which are on the brink of extinction. Liguria is known for its typical landscape, made of majestic mountains, overhanging gentle hills that roll into the sea. The red wine Amarone della Valpolicella is surely one of the most well known Italian wines and can be put away for over twenty years. Milan is the capital city of Italy's most influential region for wine production – Lombardy – which produces about 60% of Italian wines. The district's light and approachable white wines have long refreshed the tourists who flock there each summer to enjoy the scenery. The heritage of Italians with wine dates back many millennia. Lambrusco is certainly one of the most famous Italian wines, but also divisive like few others. In this course, you will explore the history of viticulture and winemaking in Italy and analyze the unique geographic Experience the diversity and richness of Italian wine with our collection of varietals and blends from top wineries across Italy. Wines are typically dry (“secco”) The region of Puglia, along the Adriatic Sea, is another southern Italian wine mecca. If you love Italian wines, this is definitely the region to keep your eyes on. Epokale 2013 – Cantina Large catalog of 18000+ labels including Wines, Distillates, Beers, Oils and Vinegars available on our Online Shop. Italian white wine enjoys a great reputation among wine lovers around the world and, as with Italian red wines, it is produced in all regions. [2] We tasted more than 6,000 Italian wines this year and that itself is an achievement, considering the conditions during the pandemic. Discovering the Veneto Region Wines. It was born in November 1999 and was the first online wine shop in Italy to sell wine on the Web, a real point of reference in the world for all lovers of Italian wine. Sylvaner: This is a variety whose origins may be German. 1 Italian wine of the Year is a formidable bottle – the Paolo Scavino Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata Riserva 2016. Tenuta Ulisse Rosé 2020 – $14. For one, Piedmont introduces us to a completely new set of wine grapes to taste and understand – from Nebbiolo to Cortese. Europe's 2022 Vintage a Taste of Things to Come. Origin is important. Grapes:100% Vermentino Region:Sardinia. Grapes were cultivated by the Etruscans in the 8th century BC. These areas may be considered as representative of the main wine landscapes of Italy. Regional guides The ultimate guide to Italian wine. While regions like Barolo, Chianti, and Prosecco are internationally celebrated, others remain hidden gems. Home to some heavy-duty red wines and the ever-popular, light At the time, Wine Enthusiast’s Tuscany and Southern Italy reviewer Danielle Callegari said, “If there’s one takeaway from the huge amount of Italian wine I’ve tasted in the past months, it’s this: Italian wine is better than Discover Southern Italy with These 11 Fantastic Wines. With its rich history and diverse landscapes, Italy is one of the world’s most celebrated wine countries, offering top wine regions full of wineries and vineyards for Valpolicella’s Wines. Veneto is the most populous and biggest denominazione di origine controllata (DOC) producer of the three regions. Therefore Brunello Puglia is a wine region on the 'heel' of Italy's boot. Salice Salentino is made from the Negroamaro grape, which in Italian means “black bitter. The Veneto region of Italy is renowned for its range of volcanic wines. Fruity vs earthy: Italian red wines tend to be fruitier from the south and earthy from the north. Wine Spectator’s annual Top 100 list—our editors’ picks for the most exciting new releases reviewed over the past year—encapsulates the world of wine, representing everything from stellar vintages to leadership changes at wineries. La Carta Wine is a European wine importer and wine distributor based in Melbourne, Australia. Tuscany leads with 41 entries, with super Tuscans taking the most spots, showcasing wines from sangiovese to merlot and cabernet. Type: Malvasia-Trebbiano White Wine Blend Primarily Malvasia Bianca di Candia and Trebbiano Toscano, with up to 10% other white regional grapes (including rarities like Bombino and Bellone). It all started in Tuscany and is bound to continue in Sicily, where a friend of mine is getting married next summer. You will find many of the most iconic and historic companies but also those that have stood out for their unique and original character. At one time, Italian wines conjured images of cheap Chianti in straw-wrapped bottles. Salice Salento: The Salice Salentino region is named for the Salento Peninsula located on the backside of the heel of Italy’s “boot” that extends into the ocean. To go a little deeper, here is a good guide we found on wine terms. Wineshop. Alto Adige in the northern part of the country offers fascinating and affordable red and white wines Italy's 20 wine regions correspond to the 20 administrative regions. "The wines of Liguria could even make stones blossom". Tuscan wine is Italian wine from the Tuscany region. 21. I followed that in 1982 with the Pocket Guide to Italian Wine, the first of a series of titles in various formats and Cinque Terre, a legendary and rugged stretch of Italian Riviera just over the hill from La Spezia, is one of the most visually impressive of Italy's wine districts. Puglia (Apulia) is a beautiful, sunny wine region located in southern Italy. You don’t have to know Italian wine intuitively to have a great time. This map shows the 13 encompassing wine regions of Umbria. From Tuscany to Piedmont, our collection of Italian wines capture the unique character and flavors of each Italy is one of the most celebrated wine-producing countries in the world, boasting a rich tapestry of wine regions, each with its unique terroirs, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions. A smattering of Barolo and Langhe wines fly the flag for Piedmont, while the Veneto is in the mix too thanks to a single-vineyard Amarone della Valpolicella from one of the region’s best-known producers. A large and geographically complex region, Lombardy is well placed to offer The wines of the Cantina Episcopio first received international recognition in 1880, when a submission earned first place in a prestigious London wine tasting. The minimum of 90% Barbera grapes must be used in its production, while the other 10% may Widely grown throughout Italy, and the magic ingredient in some famous Super Tuscan wines, Merlot is a major player in the Italian wine scene. Note that this is by no means an exhaustive list of wineries in Italy, but rather a guide that is frequently updated with recommendations following recent experiences from both the Winetraveler team and Whether any of the other wines are the greatest ever made is a matter of opinion, but lots of great wines are available on this list of Top 100 Italian wines of 2023. Large catalog of 18000+ labels including Wines, Distillates, Beers, Oils and Vinegars available on our Online Shop. If you’re trying to get a deeper understanding of Italian wine, Piedmont is one of the most useful wine regions to get to know. More recently, expensive “Super Tuscans” have been the rage. January 20, 2025 – Italian Wine Podcast has just been unveiled as the Official Media Partner of Grandi Langhe 2025, the much-anticipated annual celebration of Piedmont’s most prestigious appellations. Glossary for Italian Wine. Over the past few years, Puglia has gone through some major changes in the quality of their wines due to caring producers and new regulations. It’s here where you’ll find some of the most amazing, delightfully undervalued Italian wines – from the crisp, dry white wines of Grechetto to the deep colored, antioxidant-rich reds of Sagrantino. The quaint Central Italian wine region of Umbria is a smaller neighbor to Tuscany and ideal for those looking for a low-key adventure. Varietals: falerno, caprettone, tintore. We champion local, often indigenous grape varieties; the ©Vini Prà. Credits: Flickr Grapes have been grown in the fertile soil of Campania since ancient times, and one of the pleasures of traveling through this region in southern Italy is the chance to discover the unique varieties of wine produced in this area. Quality has not always been Italian wine's guiding star, however. However, before three wars and several political misadventures during the first half of the 20th century, this incredible legacy began to be forgotten. Wine news updated. It is a crisp, delicate wine with fruity notes of apple and lime, accompanied by a solid minerality. [jwplayer player=”1″ mediaid=”30316″] Regions – x DOCs and 17 DOCGs, a region-wide DOC and no IGT wines. According to OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine), Italy was the biggest wine producer in the world in 2017. Welcome to our second episode of the Dall’Uva “Tasting Notes” Podcast! Today’s Podcast is the first in a 3-part series where Sommelier Michael Horne unlocks the secret to selecting good Vino Italiano, with an opinionated (but thoughtful) tour of the most popular Italian regional wines, from top to bottom along the Italian peninsula. From bright, fresh Pinot Grigio to the deep reds of Barolo, Italy has something for everyone, especially given our great range of wines. Italy Italian Wine Regions: A Guide to Italy’s Wine Country Winemaking in Italy dates back centuries. From the bold reds of **Tuscany** and **Piedmont** to the crisp whites of **Veneto** and the sun-soaked wines of **Sicily**, Italian wine reflects the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. The arrival of the Mycenaen Greeks in Italy marked the beginning of organized viticulture and had become an established practice by 800 BC. Cinque Terre wine region predominantly produces fragrant white wines that are based on Bosco grapes, with the addition of Vermentino or Albarola varieties. The region is bordered to the north by Switzerland and by the Emilia-Romagna region to the south, Trentino–Alto Adige and Veneto to the east, and Piedmont to the west. Italy offers discerning wine lovers some of the best and most famous wine regions in the world alongside a myriad of little-known, insider wine gems. Again, unlike Portuguese wines, Italian wines that you can only find in Italy are often just as affordable as more Type: Sparkling wine. There’s more below on understanding Italian wine labels but here are some basic terms to help you in ordering wine in a restaurant or DIY your own wine tour. And, with the existence of biotypes or sub-varieties (these are genetically identical grapes but with morphological and physiological differences), many believe this number is much higher. 2024 First Edition Wine Advent Calendar Christmas Clearance Discounted price, limited stock. Liguria is a long, thin region in north-western Italy, famed for its rugged, picturesque coastline (particularly that around the Cinque Terre). Piedmont: Known for the big, burly wines of Barolo and Barbaresco, Piedmont sits high and tight in Italy's northwest corner. Italian wine could easily be considered the final frontier of wine knowledge. Our extraordinary selection of ultra-premium and luxury wines are sold directly to consumers across the country. White wines are Reading an Italian Wine Label by Name Italian wineries will often use words such as Tenuta, Azienda, Castello or Cascina in their name. Campania is one of Italy’s oldest wine-producing regions, with a history of winemaking that dates back to ancient Roman times. Region: Veneto. Italian Wines are classified into 526 Denominations, spread in 20 Montefalco Sagrantino’s DOCG was awarded in the 1990s when Italy was in the throes of a Super Tuscan craze and the wines from this area were celebrated not only for their quality but for the Barbera d’Asti (DOCG) is an Italian red wine produced on the hilly vineyards in the provinces of Asti and Alessandria in Piedmont. Notably, its “ABC”, an abbreviation of the best-known Italian wines, including Amarone, Barolo, Barbaresco, Brunello, and Chianti, is easy to remember and a good starting point to explore the historical wine-producing country. Best Wines in Italy by Region - DOCG and DOC wines of Piedmont (Barolo, Barbaresco), Veneto (Bardolino, Prosecco, Asti Spumante), Liguria, Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Val D'Aosta. Alto Adige is a small but highly regarded wine-producing region in Northeastern Italy known for its exceptional quality wines. Prosecco must be produced using 85% Glera grape and is made using the ‘Charmat method’ (or tank method), where the second Italy’s 20 regions Italian Wine Regions. To learn more about the wines from Italy, also discover our articles on the best Italian red wines,best Italian white wines, best Italian rosé wines Take a short, fun, introductory online course to discover the wide range of Italian wines to try; Read stories from the Italian wine world, overviews of wine regions, and news from the wine trade; Learn wine terms in Italian While Italy’s production of Vermouth, cooking wines, and table wines are high, there are three primary regions that pump out the best drinking wines you can buy. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched island of Sicily, each region brings its unique twist to viticulture. Delightfully undervalued Italian wines. After the fall of Roman Empire the church took up the cultivation of vine. There is conjecture that Sicily’s “Muscato di Noto” is the [] Dating back over 1,000 years, Castiglion del Bosco is a winery steeped in rich history, Italian heritage and of course wine-making tradition. " 15 - ITALY DOCG WINE QUALITY MARK ( TOP QUALITY WORLDWIDE MARK OF WINE) . The wines of Southern Italy. The safest and best-known Italian grapes are Sangiovese, Barbera, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano and Pinot Grigio(although technically the latter is more French than Italian). They are best paired with regional seafood dishes, including appetizers and main This Italian grape was previously only used in wine blends, but over the past 20 years, winemakers have used it to make a single-varietal wine. The wines of Puglia carry the following place designations: Salento, Tuscany is one of the regions best known for producing quality wine, thanks to the soil and mild climate of its territory, but also thanks to a long winemaking tradition. But, most importantly, it is embarking on a long journey rich in history, culture, and traditions. Understanding of Italian wine becomes clearer with an understanding of the differences between each region; their cuisines reflect their indigenous wines, Taken as a whole, Italian wines are dynamic and offer a wide variety within the different growing regions of the country. With this particular mark, the Italian State, through the MIPAAF (Ministry of Agricultural, Food, and Forestry Policies), certifies and guarantees compliance with a specification that . The wine is typically aged in stainless steel tanks or glass-lined cement vats, which help to preserve its freshness and delicate flavor. Aglianico del Taburno is an Italian appellation for red and rosé (rosato) wines that are made with a minimum of 85% Aglianico grapes. Delivered from grapes of the Corvina, Corvinone Veronese, Rondinella and Molinara assortments, yet additionally the Forselina, Negrara or Oseleta assortments. Lombardy, is one of Italy's largest and most populous regions in the central north of the country. It is on these very hills that some of Italy’s most delicious wines are produced. How many Italian wines are there? Short answer: well over 500. My first book, Vino, the Wines and Winemakers of Italy, published in 1980, was considered a pioneering work, an introduction to the vast and varied world of Italian wine. Some hate it, but many love it, making Lambrusco the most exported Italian wine in the world. Wine Appellation. Tuscany is the 4th most planted region in Italy with x ha of vines. Lombardy is one of the most mountainous Italian wine regions and it is famous for the production of sparkling wines of Franciacorta. 24 MB. 15 and up Our No. Fast, Safe and Affordable! Shipping to Europe in 48/72 hours. Without a doubt, one of the best biodynamic Italian red wines: sui generis, whimsical, and passionate, engaging interplay between tannins and overwhelming acidity. Located in the north-east of the country, the region is home to some of the most iconic Italian wines, such as Valpolicella, Soave, and Amarone. Best Nero d’Avola Wine: 2016 Tasca d'Almerita Tenuta Regaleali 'Riserva del Conte' Contea di Sclafani, Sicily, Italy ($132): Here is a delicious Sicilian wine with blackberry and wood aromas and black fruit, earth and oak flavors. In total, we included a dozen Brunellos in our list of the world’s Top 100 wines in 2019. Nestled in the Alpine belt, it is among Italy's oldest wine regions A guide to the top 5 regional wines to sample in southern Italy’s Campania region. It has a fresh, lightly floral character with peaches, pear, honeysuckle, and melon notes. It is made with sun-dried Assyrtiko and Aidani grapes. This wine is made from the very grapes that give the wine its name. Italy’s crown jewels twinkle across the sun drenched Mediterranean country’s regions especially Tuscany, Piedmont and Veneto. The wine was created as a fresher and younger expression of Brunello di Montalcino wines, which are produced in the READ MORE. From the rolling hillsides in the provinces of Wine Tours in Italy. Wine Beautiful colors, delicate bubblesmust be delicious! Italy’s top sparkling wines feature the following: Prosecco: an affordable and popular sparkling wine mainly composed of the Glera grape and produced using the Charmat method. Learn about Italian Wines! This page is an essential guide to Italian Wines and collects all the articles about wines, appellations, and grape varieties. Most important, labels reveal the wine’s producer, vintage, denomination and classifica-tion (green highlights in Fig. There are surprisingly cheap Italian wines to debunk this myth. BEST WINES OF ITALY (Section Sparkling and Sweet Wines) History of Tuscan wine. Barolo is made in the region of Piedmont (Piemonte), in the northwest of Italy. Contrary to what many believe, not all expensive wines are of a higher quality. Learn about the 20 Italian wine regions and which ones to try when delving into Italian wines. Editor’s Note: This is a recurring travel guide to visiting some of the best wineries in Italy. The area is known predominantly for its white wines, which are considered some of the best examples of Italian wine in that style. Romantic landscapes don’t hurt Italy’s brand, either. Lombardy also produces still red, white and rosé wines made from a variety of local and international grapes, including Nebbiolo wines in the Valtellina region and Trebbiano By Joyce Tarantino, Italian Wine Scholar From the highest slopes in Europe for vine cultivation under the shadow of Mont Blanc to the windswept volcanic landscape on the island of Pantelleria, there is a wine for every palate. While the area is largely associated with Venetian wine is produced in Veneto, a highly productive wine region in northeastern Italy. More than 500 DOCG, DOC and IGT wines turn Italy into an authentic land of wine, characterizing their respective territories of origin through history, culture and the economy. Bacchus was the Roman god of wine Italian Wine History. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged mountains of Piedmont, Italy's wine country offers diverse landscapes and grape varieties, each It’s famous for high quality and produces more DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita — Italy’s top wine classification designation) wines than any other region. Despite a surprisingly similar name, this Greek wine does not have much in common with the more famous Vin Santo from Tuscany. Discussing Italy and its wines isn’t simply about the grapes. The world of Italian wine can seem daunting—in a country smaller than the state of California, some say there are over 2,000 unique native grape varieties, and about 400 of those are used in commercial winemaking. Wine Maps; Wine Map of Italy; The vineyards of Italy They spread accross 695 000 hectares in different appellations: Vini DOP, Vini IGP, Vini Varietali and Vini. Lombardy. Explore the top 10 varieties, notable regions, common label terms, and more. But the good news is that this Plus, this Italian wine region is also home to Naples, known for being the modern birthplace of pizza — a perfect dish for pairing with native wines. Take an Italian tour with new reviews of delicious wines from Sicily's Etna, Campania's Taurasi and beyond, up to 92 points. The Romans were good agriculturists and good vintners. Tasting cards, Italian wine producers cards by denomination and by region. Umbria. As is the case with almost all of Italy's 20 regions, Tuscany has a long wine history. Italy's economic restoration of the 1980s reawakened its trade in wine, with significant improvement in quality acknowledged Southern Italy is huge and consists of the wine-growing regions of Campania, Basilicata, Puglia, Calabria, Sicily, and Sardinia, which are impossible to explore in a single trip. Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are primarily made with Sangiovese grape whereas the Vernaccia grape is the basis of the white Vernaccia di San Gimignano. What are the best sweet wines in Italy? Discover the wines recommended by Italy’s Finest Wines with our tasting so that everyone can find the ideal wine for their tastes and needs. . The Movimento Turismo del Vino (Wine Tourism Movement) promotes tourism in many terroirs always set in scenarios of excellence: here are 3 that represent Italy worldwide. In alpine and at the same time Mediterranean Alto Adige you can taste high mineral Pinot Gris and Chardonnay in a picturesque landscape, as well as the dry South Tyrolean specialty: Gewürztraminer. Montefalco. Named wines never appear next to the wine’s classification, the most common of which on named wines is IGT. DOCG stands for “Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita” (Controlled and Guaranteed Denomination of Origin): it’s the highest recognition of quality given to Italian wines. The Cannonau grape is the local Italian name for the Grenache grape. Every province in Italy produces and exports wine, so there’s also an overwhelming number of regions to keep track of!. BEST WINES OF ITALY – (White Wines Section) Argentum Bonum 2015 – Elena Walch Best Italian Wineries, Vineyard Resorts & Wine Tasting Tours in 2025. jpg 2,840 × 1,524; 1. More than 70% of the production is expanded as DOC wines, of which it has 8 areas in total and 4 The Best Italian Wine Regions for 2024: Travel Guides, Itineraries, Travel Tips & Recent Articles Tuscany’s San Gimignano is a true feast for all of the senses. Lambrusco exports every year exceed 200 million bottles, mainly to Italy's best wineries and wines - from sparkling to white, rosé, red and sweet - are presented, interesting facts about the individual wine-growing regions are explained, and impressive landscape photographs from all over Italy are shown - from South Tyrol to Sicily, from Friuli to Piemont. One can always tell if it is a named wine by the location of the name on the label. Experience the diversity and richness of Italian wine with our collection of varietals and blends from top wineries across Italy. A few of the often-overlooked areas in Italy; however, may give some of the best value. Some Among the best Italian red wine types the Barolo is the king of wines, and the wine of kings! This is a perfectly balanced wine that requires unique climatic conditions. Today, the vineyard features wines made from local grapes: Ginestrella, Pepella, San Nicola, Biancazita, and Biancatenera for white wines, and Aglianico, Serpentaria, and Piedirosso for red. Complex and rich with a full, velvety body and soft tannins, it has red berry and black cherry flavours that Alpine Wine Regions of Italy. Piero Antinori's 2014 book The Hills of Chianti Mattia Spedicato, wine manager at Michelin three-star Geranium in Copenhagen (No1 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022 list), impressed producers last October in Sicily when he confessed that two-thirds of the restaurant’s wine list is dedicated to white wines: in the past, an old vintage of a Chardonnay, a Fiano or a Trebbiano was presumed unsellable as Decipher an Italian Wine List. These varieties cover many tho Discover our list with description and characteristics and of the most famous Italian wines. From fruit-forward, crisp whites to full-bodied, deep reds, this list has you covered. 29-Aug-2022. Probably one of the best known Italian wines, Prosecco is an affordable sparkling wine that has gained global recognition and has become a popular alternative to Champagne.