What are the best Italian wines?
Quick answer
Italy, the world's largest wine producer, excels with its top-tier DOCG wines: Barolo and Barbaresco (Piedmont, Nebbiolo grape), Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti Classico (Tuscany, Sangiovese), Amarone della Valpolicella (Veneto) and the celebrated Super Tuscans. Top whites include Greco di Tufo and Fiano di Avellino.
Detailed answer
Italy is an unrivalled viticultural mosaic: 20 producing regions, over 500 indigenous grape varieties (roughly 350 of commercial importance) and more than 400 DOCG/DOC appellations. Producing around 49 million hectolitres annually, it vies with France for the title of world's largest wine producer.
Piedmont in the northwest is home to two of Italy's grandest wines: Barolo ("the king of wines, wine of kings") and Barbaresco, both made from Nebbiolo. These are tannic, complex reds with aromas of rose, tar, cherry and truffle that often need 10–20 years of cellaring. Piedmont also excels with Barbera d'Asti and Dolcetto.
Tuscany is the other pillar. Brunello di Montalcino (100% Sangiovese, minimum 5 years ageing including 2 in barrel) ranks among the world's most prestigious reds. Chianti Classico, from the hills between Florence and Siena, offers outstanding value. The "Super Tuscans" — wines made outside appellation rules using international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot — revolutionised Italian wine in the 1970s and 80s.
Veneto produces Amarone della Valpolicella, a unique red made from partially dried grapes (appassimento), yielding concentrated, powerful wines at 15–17% ABV. The popular sparkling Prosecco also hails from Veneto.
Southern Italy is experiencing a quality renaissance: Aglianico del Vulture (Basilicata), Primitivo di Manduria (Puglia), Nero d'Avola (Sicily) and Etna DOC offer exciting wines at attractive prices. Explore Italy's best on expertvin.be.