Wine from Italy

The main wine regions in Italy

• Piedmont : Home of Barolo and Barbaresco (Nebbiolo), Barbera and Dolcetto.
• Tuscany : Sangiovese in Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Super Tuscans (often IGT).
• Veneto : Valpolicella, Ripasso, Amarone and white wines such as Soave and Pinot Grigio.
• Sicily : Nero d'Avola, Frappato and Etna wines on Nerello Mascalese and Carricante.
• Trentino-Alto Adige : Fresh, cool white wines and elegant red wines – often from high-altitude vineyards.
• Apulia and Campania : Primitivo, Negroamaro and Aglianico with warmth and fullness.
• Lombardy and Franciacorta : Sparkling wines made using the traditional method.

Styles and grape variety

Italian wine production ranges from ultra-traditional DOCG wines to experimental, terroir-driven IGT wines. Some of the most widely grown grapes are:

• Nebbiolo : Structure, tannin and elegance – especially in Barolo and Barbaresco.
• Sangiovese : Fresh acidity, red berries and herbs. Italy's most planted grape.
• Barbera : Fruity, acidic and food-friendly – ​​especially in Piedmont.
• Corvina : Used in Veneto for both light Valpolicella and strong Amarone.
• Pinot Grigio : Light and fresh white wine, especially from Northern Italy.
• Glera : Used for Prosecco – fruity and sparkling.
• Nero d'Avola, Vermentino, Carricante, Aglianico : Regional varieties with strong identity.

Wines range from easy-drinking everyday wines to complex wines with high aging potential and depth.

Italian wine legislation and classification

Italy's classification system follows four main levels:

• Vino : Table wine without geographical indication.
• IGT : Indicates geographical origin, but allows more freedom in grape selection and vinification.
• DOC : Strictly controlled with requirements for grapes, harvest yield and style.
• DOCG : Highest level – with extra control and sensory testing.

Some of Italy's most sought-after wines – such as Brunello, Barolo and Amarone – are classified as DOCG. Many Super Tuscans are IGT wines, giving winemakers the freedom to work with non-traditional grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Frequently asked questions about wine from Italy