Italian Wine Regions
Are you a lover of wine? Do you get excited about trying new ones, learning about different grapes, and how wine is produced in each region? If so, this Blog is for you...
Below are descriptions of the wine regions in Italy. Each is known for specific grapes and unique wines.
Tuscany – one of the world’s most famous wine regions… rolling hills lined with vineyards and Cypress trees with farmhouses in the background. The views are magical in this region. You may not know there are three very distinct wine growing areas within Tuscany.
The Chianti region - Chianti wines are made mostly from Sangiovese grapes, a small percentage of other varieties may be used. Chianti Classico is typically considered a lighter wine, robust yet fruity in flavor.
The Brunello region – Brunello wines are made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Brunello di Montalcino is a red Italian wine produced in the vineyards surrounding the town of Montalcino located south of Florence. Brunellos are deep, robust red wines that are high in tannins, and considered the most expensive classic Tuscan wine.
The Super Tuscans – This is in the coastal region of Tuscany, a local take on the classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah, and Cab Franc. Bolgheri is the coastal region where Super Tuscan wines are produced, located to the west of Florence. The mixture of international grapes and local varieties along with the sea breezes allow for production of wonderful red blends.
Piemonte – This is among the world’s very finest wine regions. Located in northwest Italy, the region shares borders with France and Switzerland and is surrounded by mountains on three sides. The area is famous for its red wine production using the Nebbiolo grape. The two best known wines made from the Nebbiolo grape in this region are Barolo and Barbaresco. These wines are known for the pronounced tannins which allow them to have an exceptional aging potential. A good vintage will be at its best between 10 and 30 years old, and many can go 40 years or more.
Veneto – The Veneto is a large wine region in the northeast of Italy, not far from Venice. While the region is very well known for its production of Prosecco, they also produce Amarone della Valpoliccella and some white wines. The Corvina grape is a used to produce the dense, rich red wine known as Amarone. The incredibly diverse terroir with volcanic soils, hilly and flat areas allow for the production of many different wine styles in this region… enjoy everything from sparkling, light and drinkable wines to full bodied and intense.
Lombardy – This region, north of the lakes, is famous for producing prestigious sparkling wines in the Franciacorta area. The grape used here is Pinot Bianco. The region of Valtellina is known for its light reds produced from the Nebbiolo grape (called Chiavennasca locally).
Emilia Romagna – Known as the land of Lambrusco, the most famous wine of the region is produced from the Lambrusco grapes and is a light red sparkling wine. It is not very sweet and a perfect summer wine.
Abruzzo – This region is on the east side of Italy, on the Adriatic coast, and is best known for its Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. An Italian red wine made from the Montepulciano wine grape in this region.
Sicily – Great wines are produced on the volcanic soil of Mount Etna. The most popular and considered the best grape variety is the Nero d’Avola, which is a dark red wine, characterized by notes of jam, leather, and liquorice. This is often blended with Merlot or Cabernet Savignon.
This is just a selection of the most well-known wine regions of Italy. There are many more but I hope this gives you an idea and a bit of inspiration. Interested in visiting and learning more about the Italian wine regions? We can create a fabulous itinerary for you with a focus on the wine regions of your preference. Reach out to start planning.
Working with Distinct Vacations in reserving at any of our preferred properties, you may have access to flexible cancellation policies and special amenities (such as a spa credit, complimentary breakfast, and room upgrades).
Don’t want to miss any of our Blogs? You can receive them in your Inbox! Sign-up here.
