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Italy is home to some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, and Italian wines are known for their diversity. There are literally hundreds of different wine styles made in Italy, ranging from light and refreshing whites to rich and full-bodied reds, and everything in between.

WINE STYLES OF ITALY

Here are some typical wine styles from the region of Italy.

Soft Fruity Reds

Spicy Reds

Powerful Reds

CENTRAL ITALY

Tuscany is easily one of Italy's most celebrated wine regions, known for producing some of the country's most iconic wines. Among the most famous are Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. While these wines are some of the most well-known coming out of Tuscany, the region also produces excellent white wines, made from grapes like Trebbiano and Vermentino. Sparkling wines, dessert wines such as Vin Santo and even fortified wines can also be found in Tuscany, making it a truly diverse wine region.

The Abruzzo Region is another popular wine region located in central Italy. The region's red wines are some of the most celebrated in all of Italy. The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is the most well-known of these wines, and is made from the Montepulciano grape. The wine is characterized by its deep red colour, as well as its aromas and flavors of blackberry, plum, and spice. Other popular wines for this region include; Trebbiano, Chardonnay, and Sangiovese.

Lazio is home to the ancient capital city of Rome. The region's reputation is mainly based on its white wines, the mainstay grape varieties being Trebbiano and Malvasia varieties. Notable reds within the region include Merlot, Sangiovese, and Cesanes.

SOUTHERN ITALY

There are many incredible wine regions in Southern Italy that are definitely worth exploring. Some of the most popular ones include Campania, Puglia, and Sicily.

Campania is home to some of the most world-renowned wines, such as the white wine Greco di Tufo and the red wine Aglianico del Taburno. The region is also well-known for its stunning scenery, with rolling hills and vineyards as far as the eye can see.

Puglia, meanwhile, is the largest wine region in Italy and produces a huge variety of wines, from whites to reds to sparkling wines. The region is especially famous for its rosés, which are some of the most popular in all of Italy.

Finally, Sicily is an island off the southern tip of mainland Italy that is renowned for its bold and full-bodied red wines. The region is also home to a number of unique grape varietals, such as the Nero d'Avola, which is used to make some of the most delicious wines in all of Sicily.

If you're looking to try wines from some of the best regions in Southern Italy, be sure to add Campania, Puglia, and Sicily to your list!

DISCOVER THE REGIONS

  • CLIMATE

  • The climate in Italy varies from region to region, but the country as a whole has a Mediterranean climate. This means that it enjoys warm, sunny weather for much of the year. The growing season is long, and there is little risk of frost or other weather-related problems.The different regions of Italy offer a wide range of different wines. From the light, refreshing whites of the north to the full-bodied reds of the south, there is something for everyone. Italy is also home to some of the world's most celebrated wine regions.

CLIMATE

The climate in Italy varies from region to region, but the country as a whole has a Mediterranean climate. This means that it enjoys warm, sunny weather for much of the year. The growing season is long, and there is little risk of frost or other weather-related problems.The different regions of Italy offer a wide range of different wines. From the light, refreshing whites of the north to the full-bodied reds of the south, there is something for everyone. Italy is also home to some of the world's most celebrated wine regions.

KEY VARIETALS OF ITALY

Primitivo

Primitivo/Zindandel is known for its splash of jammy flavors. While the wine looks lighter and isn’t as astringent as its other full-bodied counterparts, its full body is made up in acidity and mouthfeel. Pair with pork, lamb, roasted squash, cheddar or venison.

Negroamaro

Negoramaro is a full-bodied and earthy red wine with flavours dominated by dark fruits - mainly, prunes, and ripe plum, blackberry, and sweet cherries. Negroamaro is often aged in oak barrels for a period of time to soften the tannins. A great accompaniment to bold red meat or pasta dishes.

Nero d'Avola

Nero d'Avola is a strong, full-bodied fruity wine, that takes on notes of black cherry, prune, black plum, and licorice. Nero d'Avola pairs particularly well with rich meats, including steaks, burgers, pork chops, veal, meatloaf, and even barbecue. The bold, acidic flavour of the wine allows it to cut through the richness typical of these foods.

Sangiovese

Sangiovese varies quite a bit. It can be an easy-going wine with bright red fruit and dried herbs or a brooding wine packed with dark fruits, leather, and spice. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy Syrah or Tempranillo but want something with more vibrancy. Pair with tomato based sauces, grilled meats, roast chicken, hard cheeses or pizza.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is known for its deep colour, powerful tannins, and fairly high amount of acidity. With strong aromas and flavours, the most notable flavours of Montepulciano include hints of oregano, pepper, tobacco, and black fruits. Serve with pasta dishes, grilled meats, and strong cheeses.

Fiano

Fiano is a light-bodied white wine with subtle floral and citrus aromas. The taste is clean and crisp, with hints of stone fruit and a slightly creamy mouthfeel. This wine pairs well with seafood, poultry, and mild cheeses.

Grillo

Grillo is a white wine grape variety that is grown extensively in Sicily, where it is also known as 'Rizzotto'. It produces high-acid, citrusy wines with moderate alcohol levels. Grillo wines are typically unoaked and have a fresh, crisp flavour. Pair Grillo wine with light appetizers such as bruschetta or grilled vegetables.

Trebbiano

The wines made from Trebbiano tend to be light and fresh, with subtle floral and citrus aromas.Trebbiano is an easy-drinking wine that pairs well with a variety of foods. Try it with seafood, poultry, or salads.

HISTORY

Italian wine has a long and rich history that dates back to the times of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Italy is one of the top wine-producing countries in the world and is home to some of the most popular wines, such as Chianti, Pinot Grigio, and Prosecco.

The first evidence of wine production in Italy comes from the archaeological site of Pompeii, where vines were grown and wine was made as early as the 7th century BC. Wine was an important part of Roman culture and was often used for religious ceremonies and social events.

Italian wine making continued to evolve over the centuries, with different regions developing their own unique styles. The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in wine and viticulture, and many of the great Italian winemakers of today can trace their roots back to this period.

Today, Italian wine is enjoyed all over the world and is recognised for its high quality and diversity. There are more than 2,000 different types of Italian wine, making it one of the most varied and interesting wine regions in the world.

DISCOVER TUSCANY

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