With a heritage dating back to antiquity, when the Etruscans and Romans were practicing viticulture (more than 9 thousand year ago!), it is no wonder that nowadays Italy is the world’s biggest wine producer and a major wine exporter. The Bel Paese is, needless to say, also a top destination for wine lovers that come here to find the perfect sip.
But why are Italian wines are so well loved? Wines in Italy are produced in all 20 regions, and are sought after all over the world for their top quality, and the ability to pair with a variety of food. The country is particularly attractive for wine lovers, as it presents an incredible variety of grapes and wine making styles.
In fact, each Italian region has its own unique and long-standing heritage, and represents different wine making traditions. With over 500 grape varieties grown on its territories, Italy is universally recognised as the home of viticultural diversity, boasting the largest number of native vines in the world.
The four regions of Veneto, Sicily, Puglia and Emilia-Romagna are the major wine producers accounting for nearly 50% of the total wine production. Tuscany, Trentino Alto Adige and Piedmont are other prime destinations for anyone who loves wine, and wants to taste the excellences of Italian wine production.
Great Experiences in Italy for Wine Lovers
Wine Tourism in Italy
Italy is a dream destination for wine connoisseurs as they are able to enjoy unique wine tasting experiences, paired with amazing food in the midst of breathtaking landscapes. Home to a great number of historic wineries and modern innovative cellars, proud to show visitors their unique traditions and methods.
Every year millions of people make their dream come true by preferring to cruise to the different wine regions whilst they are traveling around Italian shores to explore the world-renowned wineries and enjoy a traditional meal in one of Italy’s prized cellars.
There are a range of wine festivals throughout the year, where one can taste local wines in scenic locations, and many wine-related events organised around the country, all of which add more enjoyment to the wine experiences in Italy.
Exploring the Top Wine Regions of Italy
The main wine zones and the sub-regions are recognised by their DOCG (Italy has 78 DOCG, the highest quality designation for wine), DOC or IGT classification that helps to identify and protect their quality and authenticity depending on their origin.
Here we will take you on a journey to some key wine regions of Italy that make the country’s wine landscape so diverse and complex.
VENETO
Located in the northeastern part of the country, Veneto is not only the most diverse wine region, it produces the largest amount of wine by volume as well and remains the fastest growing wine region in Italy.
Known for its wide range of wine styles from full-bodied reds to rich whites, as well as sparkling wines, like the famous Prosecco, that have all gained international fame as a result of the area’s diverse terrain and innovative winemaking processes.
SICILY
This dynamic winemaking region also happens to be the largest island in the Mediterranean with a history of wine production dating back to thousands of years. Visitors find fascinating ancient sites, lovely coastal towns, and of course top quality wine experiences.
The varied soil and climate of Sicily as well as the indigenous production of grape varieties have managed to contribute to a rich and varied wine culture, with robust red, aromatic white and sweet wines which have been recognised globally. Sicily boasts 23 DOC’s and one DOCG, the prized Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a medium bodied red wine with cherry notes and bright acidity.
PUGLIA
Nestled in the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is a treasure trove both for food and wine lovers. Known for its rich full-bodied reds – first amongst which are Negroamaro and Primitivo – Puglia also offers refreshing whites that go very well with the region’s delicious fish dishes.
Apart from its wines, Puglia is known for its warm hospitality, great cuisine, olive oil production and beautiful coastal vistas.
EMILIA-ROMAGNA
Emilia Romagna, considered to be ‘the food capital of Italy’, has offered the world some famous food like Parmigiano Reggiano, Parma ham and balsamic vinegar.
Its wines are equally appreciated, first of all Lambrusco sparkling red wine, that was already appreciated in Roman times. You also find top whites, like the Albana, a deeply coloured wine that was the first white wine to be given the DOCG.
TUSCANY
With a plethora of famous sights and one of the most scenic countryside in Italy, Tuscany has a premium spot on Italy’s wine production map, with some prised reds made from the native Sangiovese grape variey: Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montelpuciano. All ideal pairings with the region’s traditional meat dishes.
This famous part of central Italy offers plenty of opportunities for wine tasting, from glamorous cellars to elegant villas and ancient castles turned wineries. Tuscany’s charming hilltop towns and idyllic views perfectly complement the experience.
READ ALSO:
* Best Towns Evert Wine Lover Must Visit in Tuscany
