By now, you probably know I’m a huge foodie.
I love learning about all things food, whether it’s how to whip up a new recipe or how to pair it with other foods… and wine!
At this point in my life, I’d like to consider myself a wine enthusiast.
I’m always learning something new about wine when I dine with friends or pick up a new bottle around the corner from my house.
My boyfriend loves Italian food, so over the years I’ve experimented more with Italian wines.
And let’s just say there’s a lot to learn!
If I’m being honest, that Italian wine list can sometimes feel like a foreign language.
There are so many regions, grape varieties, and DOCGs – it can be overwhelming.
Today, I’m breaking down the Italian wine list to help you pick the perfect bottle for any occasion.
Navigating an Italian restaurant’s wine list can be daunting, but understanding a few key concepts makes it much, much easier.
It’s not just about red wines and white wines, but an adventure through Italy’s terroirs and winemaking techniques.
I often find that Italian restaurants employ knowledgeable staff that are super helpful with recommendations.
Quality Levels of Italian Wine
Italian wine has a hierarchical system. Knowing these designations is crucial to choosing a high-quality wine:
- DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata): This is a wine from a specific region with specific production rules. It guarantees the origin and some aspects of the winemaking process.
- DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita): The highest quality level, with even stricter rules than DOC. Think Chianti Classico DOCG or Brunello di Montalcino DOCG. These are often award-winning wines, subject to rigorous testing and tasting panels.
- IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica): A broader designation, allowing for more flexibility in grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Often used for Super Tuscans, giving winemakers more freedom outside of strict DOC/DOCG regulations.
Italian Wine Regions
Italy’s geography plays a huge role in its wines. From the high-altitude vineyards of Alto Adige in the north to the volcanic slopes of southern Italy, each region brings its own unique touch.
The climate, soil composition, and even the altitude of the vineyards contribute to the final product.
- Northern Italy: Regions like Piedmont (home to rich Barolo and Barbera d’Alba), Veneto (Amarone della Valpolicella), and Alto Adige (crisp white wines) are known for their distinct styles. Piedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo grape, which produces powerful and age-worthy wines. Veneto, besides Amarone, also produces lighter, fruity wines like Valpolicella. Alto Adige, with its Alpine influence, excels in crisp, aromatic white wines.
- Central Italy: Tuscany (Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano) and Umbria are famous for their Sangiovese grapes. Tuscany is the heartland of Sangiovese, with Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano representing some of Italy’s most prestigious wines. Each of these wines has its own distinct character, reflecting the specific terroir and winemaking traditions of the region.
- Southern Italy: Regions like Campania (Feudi di San Gregorio) and Sicily (Italy’s largest island) produce robust red wines and aromatic white wines. Southern Italy, with its warm climate, is known for producing ripe, full-bodied wines. Sicily, with its volcanic soils and Mediterranean climate, is emerging as a dynamic wine region, producing both red and white wines of great quality.
Popular Italian Wines
Understanding the grape varieties is essential for choosing the best Italian wines.
Red Grape Varieties
- Sangiovese: This is the backbone of Chianti wine, Chianti Classico Riserva, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. It’s known for its high acidity, red fruit flavors (like cherries and plums), and hints of vanilla. Sangiovese wines often have firm tannins and a savory character.
- Nebbiolo: The grape behind Barolo and Barbaresco. Produces wines with high tannins, great length, and complex aromas (like roses, tar, and red fruit). Nebbiolo wines are known for their aging potential and complexity.
- Barbera: Produces fruity, lighter wines with high acidity. Barbera d’Alba is a classic example. Barbera wines are often enjoyed for their bright fruit flavors and refreshing acidity.
- Montepulciano: A widely planted red grape in central Italy, producing approachable wines like Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. Montepulciano wines are typically soft, fruity, and easy-drinking.
- Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir): Also grown in some regions of Italy, especially in cooler climates. Italian Pinot Nero can display characteristics similar to those of Pinot Noir from other regions, with delicate red fruit flavors and earthy notes.
White Grape Varieties
- Pinot Grigio (Pinot Gris): A popular white grape known for its crisp acidity and refreshing flavors (like green apple, citrus fruit, and white flowers). Pinot Grigio wines are often light-bodied and easy to drink.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Also grown in Italy, producing wines with citrus fruit, green apple, and floral aromas. Italian Sauvignon Blanc can be crisp and aromatic, with characteristics similar to those of other regions.
- Moscato: Used to make sweet, sparkling wines like Moscato d’Asti. Moscato wines are known for their sweet, fruity flavors and floral aromas.
- White Grape blends: Many regions produce blends of white grapes, offering a broad selection of wines. These blends can offer a complex mix of flavors and aromas, depending on the grape varieties used.
Super Tuscans
Super Tuscans are a category of Italian wines, primarily from Tuscany, that often use international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc alongside or instead of the traditional Sangiovese.
These wines are not bound by the strict rules of DOC or DOCG, allowing winemakers more freedom to experiment. They are often high-quality, award-winning wines, representing a modern approach to Italian winemaking.
Food Pairings
Italian wine and food are a match made in heaven. The right wine can really elevate a meal to a whole new level.
- Red Meats: Pair red wines like Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, or Chianti Classico Riserva with grilled steak, roasted lamb, or hearty stews. The tannins in these wines can cut through the richness of the meat.
- Pasta: Choose lighter reds like Barbera or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo for pasta dishes with tomato sauce or a richer red like a Super Tuscan for pasta with meat sauce. The acidity in the lighter reds complements the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- Seafood: Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pair nicely with seafood dishes. The crisp acidity of these wines cuts through the richness of the seafood.
- Cheese: Pair rich cheeses with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. The sweetness of Vin Santo complements the saltiness of the cheese.
Tips & Tricks for Choosing Italian Wine
- Know Your Style: Do you prefer lighter wines or full-bodied wines? Fruity wines or earthy wines? Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down your choices.
- Consider the Region: Different regions specialize in different styles of wine. If you enjoy a particular region’s wines, look for others from the same area.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: The staff at a good wine shop or Italian restaurant are usually knowledgeable about their products. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. They can guide you based on your preferences and the food you plan to enjoy.
- Look for Value: There are many good-value Italian wines available. Don’t assume that the most expensive wine is always the best. Look for wines that offer a good balance of quality and price.
- Experiment: The best way to learn about Italian wine is to try different varieties and regions. Step outside of your comfort zone and explore more Italian wines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between Chianti and Chianti Classico?
A: Chianti Classico is a specific sub-region within the Chianti region with stricter production rules and higher quality standards. It’s considered a superior wine.
Q: What is a Super Tuscan?
A: A Super Tuscan is a wine from Tuscany that often uses international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc and isn’t bound by traditional DOC/DOCG rules.
Q: How do I store Italian wine?
A: Store wine in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. Red wines are generally best served slightly below room temperature, while white wines are best served chilled.
Q: What does “Riserva” mean on a wine label?
A: “Riserva” indicates that the wine has been aged for a longer period than the standard version of that wine.
Even More Italian Wines!
- Amarone della Valpolicella: This rich, complex wine from the Veneto region is made from partially dried grapes, resulting in a concentrated, powerful wine with notes of ripe fruit, spice, and even balsamic vinegar. Amarone is a wine for special occasions.
- Brunello di Montalcino: Considered one of Italy’s greatest wines, Brunello di Montalcino is made entirely from Sangiovese grapes grown in the hills of Montalcino, Tuscany. This wine has complex aromas of red fruit, earthy notes, and silky tannins.
- Barolo: Known as the “king of wines,” Barolo is made from Nebbiolo grapes in the Piedmont region. It’s a complex, tannic wine with aromas of roses, tar, and red fruit.
- Chianti Classico Riserva: This prestigious wine from Tuscany is made from Sangiovese grapes and aged for a longer period than regular Chianti Classico. It offers a more complex and refined expression of Sangiovese, with firm tannins and a savory character.
- Moscato d’Asti: This sweet, sparkling wine from Piedmont is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter, sweeter style. It’s made from Moscato grapes and has aromas of peach, orange blossom, and honeysuckle.
Cooking with Italian Wine
Italian wine isn’t just for drinking; it’s also a fantastic ingredient in cooking. Red wine is often used in sauces, stews, and braises, adding depth and complexity of flavor.
White wine is used in seafood dishes, risotto, and other preparations. Even leftover wine can be used in cooking, adding a touch of flavor to your favorite recipes.
Whether you’re celebrating special occasions, enjoying a casual dinner, or simply relaxing at home, there’s an Italian wine for every moment.
By understanding the basics of Italian wine regions, grape varieties, and quality levels, you can confidently navigate the Italian wine list and choose the perfect bottle to complement your meal and your mood.
Don’t be afraid to explore, experiment, and discover your own favorite Italian wines. Cheers!
