1. Wine Guide
2. -
3. Wine Regions
4. -
5. Italy

• Trentino Alto-Adige

• Friuli-Venezia Giulia

• Veneto

• Emilia-Romagna

• Le Marche

• Abruzzo

• Molise

• Puglia

• Basilicata

• Calabria

• Sicily

• Campania

• Sardinia

• Lazio

• Umbria

• Tuscany

• Liguria

• Piedmont

• Valle d’Aosta

• Lombardy

• Trentino Alto-Adige

  

  An Introduction to Trentino Alto-Adige

  Wines from the Trentino Alto-Adige region are as diverse as its culture and population. Acquired by Italy in 1919, there are three official languages – Italian, German and Ladin – with a very strong Germanic influence. Throughout history this has been the northern gateway into the country, situated on the border with neighbouring Austria. A combination of both local native varieties, largely reds in Schiava and Lagrien, and German varietals such as Müller-Thurgau are widely planted, with increasing quantities of international varieties also making their way onto the vineyards.

  Climate and Geography

  The climate, whilst cool and mountainous, actually bucks the trend of many other Alpine wine regions. The valleys here heat up surprisingly quickly, sending warm air up into the vineyard-laden slopes. Coupled with high levels of bright sunshine, the terroir is the perfect provider of rich, ripe wine styles which you might not have expected.

  

  Red Varieties

  Schiava, Lagrein, Pinot Noir, Merlot

  

  White Varieties

  Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Müller-Thurgau, Pinot Blanc

  

  Climate

  Cool

  

  Landscape

  Mountainous

  

  Soil

  Glacial, alluvial, volcanic, gravel

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• Friuli-Venezia Giulia

  

  An Introduction to Friuli-Venezia Giulia

  Some of the very best white wines in all of Italy can be found in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. And whilst it’s not the most well-known, only Piedmont and Tuscany pick up more awards. The most prestigious wines all come from the two main DOC zones, Collio and Colli Orientali de Friuli, with the most widely planted and signature grape variety being Fruilano, a classic example of refreshing and aromatic dry whites from this area. International varieties are very common here, with large volumes of Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc, alongside popular local varieties including white Picolit and Verduzzo, and red varietals Refesco and Schioppentino. It’s also worth mentioning Friuli-Venezia Giulia is known for innovation, even producing good quality orange wine!

  Climate and Geography

  The climate here particularly favours dry white wines. The mineral rich soils and hot summers provide perfect conditions for full-bodied whites packed with fruit and aroma, with more alcohol and lower acidity than many northerly areas of Italy and even parts of Europe on a similar latitude. This very much bucks the trend of the traditional Italian winemaking style, which is why the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region has such a loyal following who are prepared to pay well over the odds for premium bottles.

  

  Red Varieties

  Refesco, Schioppentino, Pegnolo, Merlot

  

  White Varieties

  Fruilano, Ribolla Gialla, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Verduzzo

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Sandy loam, alluvial, gravel

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• Veneto

  

  An Introduction to Veneto

  Veneto is Italy’s most productive region in the north east. Best known for its DOC districts in Valpolicella and Soave, which produce wines made with the Corvina and Garganega grape varieties respectively, the rest of Veneto varies quite substantially with bulk production of table wines and large volumes of Prosecco. With well over 20 DOC zones, genuine quality is never far away, maybe just a little difficult to find truly outstanding wines. The best bet for a premium wine which is symbolic of Veneto is no doubt a top end Amarone Della Valpolicella, which is a complex and uniquely powerful yet classic red.

  Climate and Geography

  The Veneto wine region stretches west to Lake Garda and northwards towards the Alps and the Austrian border. Famous cities are located here, including the romantic Italian epicentres of Verona and Venice. The landscape is generally hilly with very fertile soils, which are littered with vineyards wherever the eye takes you. The climate is generally cool to moderate with both Mediterranean and continental influences, and experiences far cooler temperatures than the south which suits many white varieties.

  

  Red Varieties

  Corvina, Rondinella, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

  

  White Varieties

  Garganega, Vespailo, Pinot Grigio

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Sand, limestone, marl, basalt

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• Emilia-Romagna

  

  An Introduction to Emilia-Romagna

  Good news! A relatively straight-forward wine region with easy to understand labels. Emilia-Romagna wine bottles clearly state both the grape variety and the individual region it is from, which makes us happy and should make you very happy as well. And it gets better. There are only four main varieties you need to take note of here – two reds in Sangiovese and Lambrusco, and two whites in Trebbiano and Albana. Lambrusco is arguably the region’s biggest export and most widely-known wine, albeit suffering somewhat of a reputation crisis over the past few decades. The slightly sparkling red wine, which for too often was cheapened with high levels of sugar, is actually rather phenomenal if you try the authentic Emilia-Romagna style which is dry.

  Climate and Geography

  The best wines produced here are made within the inland hills and are 350 metre above sea level. However, the geographical diversity is significant, and plays an important role in the various local terroirs of the region. To the west lay the Apennine Peaks and a series of classic Italian rolling hills, whilst the central area is dominated by low lying plains east of Parma and Bologna. A key feature of the region is the River Po, which flows across the width of Emilia-Romagna and is home to many premium vineyards along its banks.

  

  Red Varieties

  Sangiovese, Lambrusco, Cabernet Sauvignon, Barbera, Bonarda

  

  White Varieties

  Trebbiano, Albana, Chardonnay

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Sand, marl, limestone

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• Le Marche

  

  An Introduction to Le Marche

  Marche, or Le Marche, is a wine region which is famously loyal to local varieties. For now, at least. There are two main varieties which dominate wine production here, Verdicchio for the whites and Montepulciano for the reds. The former produces a typically dry white wine, often with a full body and sometimes nutty flavour, high acidity and subtle herbaceous notes with the finer editions. Montepulciano is a classic example of Italian reds – big, bold, laden with fruit and often great value. In more recent years, international varieties have been making their way onto the winemaking scene, with many fine examples being produced across the region. A tempting move for some winemakers, maybe?

  Climate and Geography

  Soils in Marche are particularly rich in minerals, with many individual vineyards also enjoying their own mesoclimates. The rolling coastal hills provide the perfect setting for many of the region’s vineyards, with the influences of the Apennines, Adriatic Sea and winding rivers contributing to the variety in climatic conditions. On the whole, Marche can be considered a moderate climate more suited to white wine production.

  

  Red Varieties

  Montepulciano, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon

  

  White Varieties

  Verdicchio, Trebbiano, Pinot Blanc

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Mineral, chalk, limestone, clay

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• Abruzzo

  

  An Introduction to Abruzzo

  Abruzzo is the home of one of Italy’s better known indigenous red grape varieties, Montepulciano. Red wine production is entirely built around this single variety and it deserves attention of both wine novices and enthusiasts. Reds from Abruzzo are dark, spicy and laden with fruits, coupled with soft acidity (which is strange for Italian wine) and heavy tannin. A real force. When it comes to whites, the story is very much the same and is built on a singular variety in Trebbiano, which is slightly different to Trebbiano grown elsewhere in Italy. Trebbiano d’Abruzzo as its better known generally makes fresh, dry white wines with a slightly grassy flavour.

  Climate and Geography

  Abruzzo is a largely mountainous region in central Italy with a significant coastline on the Adriatic Sea. The warm climate is moderated by two geographical features – the Apennines running along the western border and to the east, the cooling effects of the Adriatic Sea. In terms of location within Italy, Abruzzo is pretty much bang in the middle of the boot!

  

  Red Varieties

  Montepulciano

  

  White Varieties

  Trebbiano

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Mountainous

  

  Soil

  Sand, clay limestone

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• Molise

  

  An Introduction to Molise

  Molise is a mountainous wine region in the southern part of central Italy neighboured by Campania, Puglia and Lazio. It is also the second smallest Italian region, producing around 400,000 hectolitres a year. The region itself is a relative newcomer to the wine world and even in Italy itself. It wasn’t until the 1980s that its only two DOC areas were awarded. Di Majo Norante is considered to be the single producer who put Molise on the map, producing wines primarily with full bodied Aglianico and fragrant Falanghina, both native red and white grape varieties. Montepulciano is also made here in large volumes, as well as Greco, Trebbiano and Sangiovese.

  Climate and Geography

  Winemaking is largely concentrated in the central coastal plains. Here, the mostly hillside vineyards high up in the mountains are heavily exposed to sunlight round the clock. Coupled with the region’s dry and hot summers, irrigation is of vital importance. The cooling effects of the sea and high altitude plains provide much need counterbalance to the heat, resulting in a favourable terroir for vine production. You won’t see many wines from this area outside of Italy, but are well worth a try.

  

  Red Varieties

  Montepulciano, Aglianico

  

  White Varieties

  Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, Greco, Falanghina

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Sand, clay, limestone

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• Puglia

  

  An Introduction to Puglia

  Puglia is primarily known for two things when it comes to food and drink – olive oil and wine. Around half of all Italy’s olive oil production takes place in this part of southern Italy, with significant volumes of mostly red wine also made here. Whilst Puglia as a wine region has suffered somewhat in recent decades with a cheap and not very cheerful reputation, the birth of full and fruity New World wines has actually played perfectly into its hands. Big, fruit-laden reds are now very widely-respected, and today is what Puglia is known for. A key difference this time around is that there is significantly better quality than in previous years, and on the whole are exceptional value for money. Primitivo is the darling of the region, which is otherwise known as Zinfandel in the USA. Local red variety Negroamano is another fine example of a Puglian red, with great depth of colour, flavour and high alcohol content. Along with Sicily, Puglia is argued by growing numbers to be among Italy’s most exciting regions in the modern era.

  Climate and Geography

  Puglia is very flat and similar to many areas of California. The hot, Mediterranean climate with gentle cooling effects of the southern sea breeze is perfect for vine production. The area is however vast and beyond that quite difficult to generalise, with 25 individual DOCs zone with the region, each arguing to have their own unique terroir. As a result, locals and visitors to the region can enjoy a myriad of different local wine styles. If you see a bottle of Bombino Bianco, make sure you try it, even if it’s just to enjoy the name! (It’s a staple Puglian white wine).

  

  Red Varieties

  Primitivo, Negroamaro, Malvasia Nera, Montepulciano, Sangiovese

  

  White Varieties

  Bombino Bianco, Verdeca, Trebbiano, Chardonnay

  

  Climate

  Hot

  

  Landscape

  Flat

  

  Soil

  Sand, clay, limestone, loam

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• Basilicata

  

  An Introduction to Basilicata

  Basilicata wine region is another of Italy’s small and lesser known areas. In contrast to its primary neighbour, Puglia, vineyards here are as high as 600m above sea level, producing fresh and well-structured wines. The red variety, Aglianico, dominates over 90% of wine production here, and whilst not carrying the same accolades as other parts of the peninsula, can offer excellent value for money. Expect deep depths of colour and good amounts of tannin. Greco is the only white wine of note, made in dry and sparkling styles.

  Climate and Geography

  Whilst not a blockbuster region, Basilicata is another beautiful part of Italy. Although mostly land locked, it features many stunning rugged mountains and rolling hills. Most vineyards are situated around Mount Vulture on extinct volcanic soils, where the region’s main DOC area, Aglianico del Vulture is located. Other parts of Basilicata are starting to build their reputation and are being awarded DOC status, so it could well be a region to keep a curious eye on in the coming years.

  

  Red Varieties

  Aglianico, Primitivo

  

  White Varieties

  Greco

  

  Climate

  Hot

  

  Landscape

  Mountainous

  

  Soil

  Volcanic, sand, marl

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• Calabria

  

  An Introduction to Calabria

  You could be forgiven for not having heard of Calabria, particularly in a wine context. Whilst sweet on the eye, this is a rugged and rural part of southern Italy, something which is reflected in its wine. As most farmers and producers focus on cereals, citrus fruits and olives, the few winemakers making a name for themselves grow a cluster of mostly native grape varieties. Gaglioppo is the primary red grown here, with a suitably rustic style with heavy tannins. Sicilian influence is also prominent, largely through the red Nerello variety often associated with the island. Whites are almost exclusively made with Greco and smaller quantities of Trebbiano.

  Climate and Georgraphy

  Although relatively unknown, there are in fact 12 DOC regions within Calabria. The most respected, and probably the only respected region, is Ciro. Here you will find a strangely unique sweet wine made with dried Greco. The local landscape is mountainous with fragmented and scattered vineyards. The climate here is hotter than most other parts of Italy, with a prominent maritime influence from the Mediterranean.

  

  Red Varieties

  Gaglioppo, Nerello, Mascalese

  

  White Varieties

  Greco, Trebbiano, Malvasia

  

  Climate

  Hot

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Clay, sand, marl

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• Sicily

  

  An Introduction to Sicily

  Sicily wine region is the most southernmost in Italy and the largest island in the Mediterranean. To compliment its size, it boasts a wonderful and diverse array of native varieties, including one of the country’s unsung heroes, Nerello Mascalese, which is often compared to the elegance of Burgundian red wine. It is however Nero d’Avola that is most widely planted, which is quite the opposite in style to the much softer and delicate Nerello. This classic Italian native is typically aggressive in tannins, with a rich flavour profile and punchy acidity. Other wines of note from the region include Sicilian Frappato – the Mediterranean’s answer to Beaujolais’s Gamay – and who can forget Marsala Wine, a popular dessert wine which is Italy’s equivalent to sherry.

  Climate and Geography

  Sicily has more land under vine than any other Italian region and with it comes considerable climatic variation. One thing which is consistent is heat – Sicily is hands down a hot region, with both the hottest and driest areas in all of Italy. Many of the region’s top wineries are located in the Peloritani Mountains, with vineyards planted along its heavy basalt terraces. Whilst the region enjoys ideal grape producing conditions, the land make-up is typically rustic, bordering on derelict, with many winemakers proudly standing by age old traditions.

  

  Red Varieties

  Frappato, Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, Nero d’Avola

  

  White Varieties

  Grillo, Catarratto, Moscato, Marsala, Inzolia

  

  Climate

  Hot

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Chalk, clay, volcanic basalt

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• Campania

  

  An Introduction to Campania

  Campania is one of Italy’s most beautiful regions, boasting a truly breath-taking coastline and some of the country’s most popular destinations. Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the island of Capri are just a handful of great south western Italian tourist spots along the much sought after Amalfi coast. The wine made in Campania isn’t bad either! The most important grape here is a native introduced by the Ancient Greeks called Aglianico, a red variety which packs a typical Italian punch. With the whites, Fiano has grown here for over 2000 years and produces some of the regions most respected white wines. Local and lesser known varieties also thrive here, including a true hidden gem in Forastera which has a light citrus charm. For something different, look out for Falanghina and Fenile, which makes white wines with unique notes of orange blossom – bellissimo!

  Climate and Geography

  With Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius hugging the western shore, it will be of no surprise that soils here are heavily volcanic and rich in minerals. Coupled with warm temperatures and a classic Mediterranean climate, Campania has an envious terroir, producing wines with distinctive qualities and flavours which often don’t require oak ageing for complexity, particularly white wines. It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic Italian setting than enjoying a chilled glass of local Campanian wine whilst looking out onto the stunning Amalfi coast. Again – bellisimo!

  

  Red Varieties

  Aglianico, Piedrosso

  

  White Varieties

  Falanghina, Greco, Fiano, Biancolella, Forastera, Fenile, Ripolo

  

  Climate

  Hot

  

  Landscape

  Hilly, coastal

  

  Soil

  Volcanic, limestone, clay

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• Sardinia

  

  An Introduction to Sardinia

  Sardinia is a beautiful part of Italy, but strangely one which doesn’t quite share the enthusiasm or passion for winemaking than its mainland cousins. That’s not to say that great quality wines aren’t found here, there are many fine examples which are gradually gaining recognition across the world. It just hasn’t really taken off, despite having the perfect Mediterranean setting for making wine. The portfolio here is varied with prominent local varieties grown alongside international regulars. Vermentino and Muscat Blanc are among the more symbolic Italian wines, with varieties almost exclusive to the island including Nuragus and Nasco, which are mostly made in the capital Cagliari. Cannonau is the most widely planted grape accounting for 30% of production, creating red wines which are typically high in alcohol and low in acidity, with deep dark fruit flavours and notes of chocolate and coffee from oak ageing.

  Climate and Geography

  First and foremost, this is a stunning place to visit. The coastline really is postcard perfect with glorious turquoise waters, rugged landscapes and white sandy beaches on almost every side of the island. The heat which Sardinia enjoys is countered by prominent winds which moderate and cool temperatures, particularly at night. On the whole, this is an awesome place to make wine! Where can we sign-up?

  

  Red Varieties

  Carignano, Cannonau, Cabernet Sauvignon

  

  White Varieties

  Vermentino, Vernaccia, Nuragus, Nasco, Muscat Blanc

  

  Climate

  Hot

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Calcium, sand, limestone

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• Lazio

  

  An Introduction to Lazio

  The wine region of Lazio has been supplying the taverns of the Italian capital for over 2000 years. The DOC of Frascati in particular has been at the forefront of production for Rome, with wines of a typically easy drinking style designed to be drunk young. The other historic wine zone, and one with arguably the strangest name of any wine producing region in the world, is Est! Est!! Est!!! – Yes, you’ve read it correctly. Wines here are largely white made with Trebbiano and variations of Malvasia, which again are soft and easy going, with delicate flavours of peach.

  Climate and Geography

  Volcanic hills are a match made in heaven for vineyards and Lazio has plenty of them. Fertile lands, which also drain well, are in abundance for many of the region’s winemakers, with potassium rich soil particularly well suited to white wine production. Proximity to the sea, as with many of Italy’s wine regions, plays an influential role, providing much needed breeze during the hot summer months.

  

  Red Varieties

  Sangiovese, Cesanese, Montepulciano, Merlot

  

  White Varieties

  Trebbiano, Malvasia di Candia, Malvasia Puntinata

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Volcanic, clay, limestone

  Shop Italian Wine

• Umbria

  

  An Introduction to Umbria

  Umbria wine region is a hidden gem. Often seen as the lesser-known cousin of Tuscany, producing less than a quarter of its neighbour, there’s actually plenty to be excited about when it comes to Umbrian wine. It has a very similar climate and geographical makeup to Tuscany, but the key difference is that many wines here are made with indigenous local grapes. Procanico and Grechetto are popular white varieties which have propelled the reputation of Umbria with its DOC zones in Orvieto and Torgiano. These two areas produce fabulous white wines, awash with stone fruits and typical Italian acidic freshness. Sangiovese is the main red grape variety, whilst Sagrantino is a full-bodied, full tannin local legend, and well worth a try if you can get your hands on a bottle.

  Climate and Geography

  Whilst countless tourists flock to the vineyards around Florence and its Tuscan counterparts, avid wine enthusiasts can enjoy a peaceful tour sampling wine of equal standing off the beaten Umbrian track. The landscape consists of beautiful rolling hills, rustic countryside and historic Italian towns, with rural vineyards scattered throughout. The summers are warm, whilst winters are cool with above average rainfall.

  

  Red Varieties

  Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Sagrantino, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

  

  White Varieties

  Procanico, Malvasia, Grechetto, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc

  

  Climate

  Moderate, continental

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Calcareous, clay, sand

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• Tuscany

  

  An Introduction to Tuscany

  Tuscany is the most important wine region in central Italy, locally known as Toscana. Whilst it has never been at the centre stage either politically or economically, it is where Italian language, art and arguably culture as we know it today originates. This also translates to its stature among Italian wine – Chianti (responsible for probably the best wine reference ever made in a movie) and Brunello Di Montalcino are just two of the DOC zones which are synonymous with the classic Italian style. In terms of grape varieties, this is very much the home of Sangiovese – the red grape behind Chianti’s rise to fame. Classic Tuscan whites are usually made with Trebbiano and Vermentino. There is also a thing called the “Super-Tuscans”, which is the result of frustrated winemakers who felt restricted by the region’s laws. They are responsible for new-wave wines being made here with international grape varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

  Climate and Geography

  The majority of the Tuscan landscape is made up of beautiful rolling hills and winding rivers which lead to the wonderful Italian coast, with the iconic city of Florence at its centre. Summers here are hot and dry, whilst autumn can be unpredictable with risk of heavy rainfall. However, close proximity to the warming influence of the Mediterranean usually means problem-free harvests and consistent vine yields.

  

  Red Varieties

  Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

  

  White Varieties

  Trebbiano, Vermentino, Malvasia

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Sand, marl, clay

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• Liguria

  

  An Introduction to Liguria

  Liguria wine region hugs the north-western Italian coastline, stretching from the French Riviera to northern Tuscany. It is home to some of Europe’s most expensive land and property, and is even known as the Italian Riviera! Whilst the rugged coastline draws in more tourism than it does wine production, good quality wines are made here, particularly aromatic whites. Vermentino is an excellent example and the most widely planted, with classic notes of pear and apple. Whites are rarely oaked here and incredibly fresh in approach, making the perfect accompaniment to seafood. The best native variety is Rossese, a delicious red with prominent fruit notes of redcurrant and strawberry, very similar to Pinot Noir.

  Climate and Geography

  This is an area up against the odds with many inhospitable lands. Winemaking as a result is largely artisan, with vineyards scattered on steep and rocky coastal slopes. Heavy limestone soils add to the minerality of white wines made in Liguria, complementing the much enjoyed freshness in style. Without doubt yet another stunning winemaking region within Italy.

  

  Red Varieties

  Rossese, Dolcetto, Sangiovese

  

  White Varieties

  Vermentino, Pigato, Bosco, Albarola

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Clay, limestone

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• Piedmont

  

  An Introduction to Piedmont

  Piedmont is another of the Italian wine powerhouses and among the most important. It produces outstanding wine which is lauded the world over, even more so as many of the grape varieties are native to the area. The two major wine producing areas within Piedmont responsible for its fine reputation are Barolo and Barbaresco, both of which are DOCG – the most prestigious geographical indication of the highest quality Italian wine. The Nebbiolo grape is at the heart of everything here and ripens to perfection. Barolo and Barbaresco wines are quite simply glorious, particularly when aged; high acidity, prominent red berry notes with complex violet and liquorice aromas, peppery tones, tar-like leathery finish with full yet soft tannins – the list goes on!

  Climate and Geography

  It’s not just reds here which impress and there are plenty of other DOCs within the region. Around a third of Piedmont wines are in fact white and predominantly made with Moscato or Cortese (Cortese is otherwise known as Gavi, the area in which it is largely made). Moscato wines from Piedmont are usually sweet and come in two main styles – spumante, which is the fizzy version, and Moscato d’Asti, the low alcohol dessert wine.

  The climate here has parallels to Bordeaux with cold winters and warm summers, whilst the Alps provide much needed protection from harsher weather and limit the levels of rainfall.

  

  Red Varieties

  Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Barbera, Freisa, Bonarda

  

  White Varieties

  Moscato, Cortese, Arneis, Erbaluce, Timorasso

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Hilly, coastal

  

  Soil

  Gravel, limestone, marl

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• Valle d’Aosta

  

  An Introduction to Valle d’Aosta

  Valle d’Aosta wine region, although small in stature and production, punches well above its weight. Sitting in the very far north-western corner of Italy, on the border with France and Switzerland, the region has a rich vinicultural history and interesting range of grapes and wine styles worth talking about. White wines here are particularly fresh, minerally and elegant in style, benefitting from the cooler mountainous landscape which is synonymous with quality white wine. Prié Blanc and Petit Arvine are native varieties worth trying, so too are the area’s dessert wines made with Moscato. These are lighter and racier than those further south, and the envy of many Italian winemakers. Red wines are primarily made with Nebbiolo, with a typically perfumed fragrance. Petit rouge is also very common, particularly among DOC zones. Firm acidity, moderate colour and fragrant red fruit notes are the primary notes you will experience. Keep an eye out for very fine Chardonnay and Gamay too, which give the best French white wines from Pouilly-Fumé a run for their money!

  Climate and Geography

  The climate of Valle d’Aosta is heavily influenced by the Alpine landscape. Mountainous geography makes winemaking a very challenging prospect, with limited plains and flat ground on which to grow vines. At 1200 metres above sea level, these are among the highest in all of Europe! Most vineyards are located in scattered terraces, with some trained into pergola growth. Thin top soil, coupled with rocky make up, provides perfect levels of stress for vines to produce grapes packed with flavour.

  

  Red Varieties

  Nebbiolo, Petit Rouge, Gamay

  

  White Varieties

  Moscato, Prié Blanc, Chardonnay, Petit Arvine, Pinot Grigio

  

  Climate

  Moderate

  

  Landscape

  Mountainous

  

  Soil

  Gravel, clay, alpine

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• Lombardy

  

  An Introduction to Lombardy

  Lombardy is better known for fashion and its capital Milan than it is wine, but that’s not to say you shouldn’t give this northern part of Italy a try! Slightly dwarfed in reputation by its neighbours, particularly that of Piedmont and Veneto, Lombardy is starting to emerge from the shadows with its own unique styles and premium wines. It even boast Italy’s only DOCG zone which produces sparkling wine in the traditional method as seen in Champagne, in Franciacorta, . If you’re after the very best example of Italian sparkling wine which can give the French a run for their money, this is probably where you’d end up. Nebbiolo and Trebbiano are the most widely grown red and white varieties, the former known among locals as Chiavennasca.

  Climate and Geography

  The climate is varied due to the diverse geographical landscape, but is generally considered to be cool with prominent alpine and continental influences. Wines produced here are influenced by several geographic features, including the Alps located in the north and the River Po which forms most of the region’s southern border with Emilia-Romagna. Stony soils store much needed heat from sunlight, which is particularly important for vines during the cooler nights. These conditions naturally favour white varieties and sparkling wines, providing fresh, crisp and mineral undertones.

  

  Red Varieties

  Nebbiolo, Barbera, Bonarda, Lambrusco, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir

  

  White Varieties

  Trebbiano, Cortese, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Moscato, Riesling

  

  Climate

  Cool, alpine and continental

  

  Landscape

  Hilly

  

  Soil

  Limestone, clay, chalk, gravel

  Shop Italian Wine

Explore Other Wine Regions

Spain

Portugal

France

Lebanon

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