What Famous Italian Wines Can You Buy Today?

Italy is a country known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and, of course, its exquisite wine. With a wine-making heritage that spans over thousands of years, it’s no wonder that Italy is home to some of the most famous and sought-after wines in the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at ten of the most renowned Italian wines, their unique characteristics, and the regions they hail from. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to expand your knowledge of Italian wines, this guide will provide you with an in-depth understanding of these exceptional beverages.

Check out these famous Italian wines.

1. Brunello di Montalcino

Region: Tuscany

Brunello di Montalcino is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most famous and prestigious wines, recognized internationally for its elegance, complexity, and great aging potential. Originating from the Tuscany region, this wine is produced exclusively from 100% Sangiovese grapes grown in the territory of the Montalcino municipality, in the province of Siena.

The history of Brunello di Montalcino can be traced back to Clemente Santi, a pharmacist who first planted the Sangiovese Grosso vines (locally known as Brunello) on the Il Greppo farm in Montalcino. Today, there are around 2000 hectares of vineyards dedicated to the production of this exceptional wine.

The Brunello di Montalcino wine is required to be aged for at least two years in oak containers (of any size) and is not allowed to be marketed before January 1st of the fifth year following the harvest. This lengthy aging process contributes to the wine’s remarkable complexity and refinement.

2. Barolo

Region: Piedmont

Barolo, often referred to as the “King of Wines,” is another renowned Italian wine known for its complexity, elegance, and extraordinary aging potential. This red wine hails from the Piedmont region in northern Italy and is produced exclusively with 100% Nebbiolo grapes.

The Barolo wine is grown in the Langhe area, encompassing the municipalities of Barolo, La Morra, Monforte, Serralunga d’Alba, Castiglione Falletto, Novello, Grinzane Cavour, Verduno, Diano d’Alba, Cherasco, and Roddi. The wine is required to be aged for a minimum of 38 months, with at least 18 months in wood, before it can be released to the market.

Barolo is known for its garnet-red color, ethereal and intense aroma, and a dry, full, and velvety flavor with the right amount of tannins. The wine pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes, making it a perfect choice for special occasions and celebrations.

3. Amarone della Valpolicella

Region: Veneto

Amarone della Valpolicella is a unique and highly esteemed Italian red wine, acclaimed for its elegance, complexity, and impressive aging potential. This wine is produced in the Valpolicella region, located in the province of Verona, using a special grape drying technique known as “appassimento.”

The grapes used for Amarone della Valpolicella include Corvina (45-95%), Corvinone (45-95%), Rondinella (5-30%), and other non-aromatic red grape varieties allowed by the specification, such as the native Oseleta. The drying process concentrates the colors, aromas, and structure of the grapes, resulting in a wine with a unique, complex, and extraordinarily elegant character.

The Amarone della Valpolicella wine must be aged for a minimum of two years, and it cannot be marketed before January 1st of the third year following the harvest. However, many producers choose to extend the aging period even further to enhance the wine’s complexity and depth of flavor.

4. Chianti Classico

Region: Tuscany

Chianti Classico, distinguished by its iconic black rooster emblem, is one of Italy’s most well-known and beloved wines. This DOCG wine is produced in the heart of the Chianti region, covering 7,200 hectares of vineyards between the provinces of Florence and Siena.

The Chianti Classico wine is made primarily from Sangiovese grapes (80-100%), with the addition of traditional varieties such as Canaiolo, Colorino, or international varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is available in three different types: Chianti Classico (basic version), Chianti Classico Riserva (with extended aging), and Gran Selezione (produced from the most selected grapes and aged for a minimum of 30 months).

Chianti Classico is known for its intense ruby red color, vibrant fruit flavors, and smooth, well-rounded texture. It is an excellent choice for pairing with a wide variety of Italian dishes, particularly those featuring tomato-based sauces and grilled meats.

5. Supertuscan

Region: Tuscany

Supertuscan wines are a category of high-quality Italian red wines that emerged in the 1970s as a result of winemakers’ desire to create wines that defied traditional Italian wine regulations. These wines are typically produced in the Tuscany region and often incorporate international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, in addition to the native Sangiovese.

Some of the most famous Supertuscan wines include Sassicaia (Tenuta San Guido), Pergole Torte (Montevertine), Flaccianello (Fontodi), Tignanello (Antinori), and Ornellaia (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi). These wines have gained worldwide recognition for their modern style, French-inspired winemaking techniques, and exceptional quality.

Supertuscan wines are known for their rich, full-bodied flavors, elegant structure, and impressive aging potential. They are often considered some of the finest and most sought-after wines in the world, making them an excellent choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

6. Franciacorta

Region: Lombardy

Franciacorta is Italy’s answer to Champagne, and it is undoubtedly the country’s most successful sparkling wine on the international stage. Produced in the Lombardy region, specifically in the province of Brescia in the Franciacorta territory, this DOCG wine is made using the traditional method (also known as the Champagne method) from Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco, and the native Erbamat grapes.

The minimum aging period for Franciacorta on the lees is 18 months, which increases to 30 months for the vintage version and 60 months for the reserve version. The wine is also available in a rosé version and a unique Saten version, which is exclusively Brut and features a lower pressure, resulting in a more silky and enveloping effervescence.

Franciacorta is known for its fine bubbles, refreshing acidity, and complex flavors that often include notes of citrus, green apple, almond, and brioche. It is an excellent choice for celebrations, aperitifs, and pairing with a wide range of dishes, from seafood to light pasta dishes.

7. Etna

Region: Sicily

Etna wines, produced in the volcanic soils of Mount Etna in the province of Catania, Sicily, have gained fame for their distinct elegance and unique flavors. The vineyards, located at high altitudes and subject to significant temperature variations between day and night, yield wines with refined aromas and extraordinary depth of flavor.

Etna wines are available in two main types: Etna Rosso, Etna Bianco, and Etna Rosato. Etna Rosso is produced from Nerello Mascalese (minimum 80%) and Nerello Cappuccio (maximum 20%) grapes, while Etna Bianco is made from Carricante (minimum 80%) and Catarratto (maximum 20%).

These wines are known for their medium to full body, vibrant acidity, and flavors that often include notes of red and black fruits, herbs, and minerality. They are an excellent choice for those looking to explore the diverse world of Italian wines and experience the unique terroir of the Etna region.

8. Barbaresco

Region: Piedmont

Barbaresco, another renowned wine from the Piedmont region, is often compared to its more famous counterpart, Barolo. Made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, Barbaresco is known for its elegance, refinement, and extraordinary aging potential.

The wine is produced in the Langhe area, covering around 700 hectares of vineyards in the municipalities of Barbaresco, Neive, and Treiso. The Barbaresco wine must be aged for a minimum of three years, with at least nine months in wooden containers. For the Barbaresco Riserva, the aging period extends to 50 months.

Barbaresco is characterized by its garnet-red color, ethereal and pleasant aroma, and a dry, full, and velvety flavor with the right amount of tannins. It is an excellent choice for pairing with robust dishes and special occasions, just like Barolo.

9. Lambrusco

Region: Emilia-Romagna

Lambrusco, hailing from the Emilia-Romagna region, is one of Italy’s most famous and divisive wines. While some may not appreciate its unique character, many others love it, making Lambrusco the most exported Italian wine in the world. Lambrusco is made using the Charmat method, which results in a sparkling wine with a distinctively fruity and refreshing profile.

The primary types of Lambrusco include Lambrusco di Sorbara, known for its lighter color and aromas of small red fruits and violets, and Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro, characterized by its intense ruby red color, violet reflections, and fruity aroma with a hint of wild berries.

Lambrusco is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes, from antipasti and charcuterie to pasta and pizza. Its unique character and widespread popularity make it an essential addition to any exploration of Italian wines.

10. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo

Region: Abruzzo

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, a fruity, spicy, and intense red wine, is one of Italy’s most famous and beloved wines. Produced in the Abruzzo region, this wine is made primarily from Montepulciano grapes (minimum 85%), with the addition of other non-aromatic black grape varieties.

Montepulciano is a native vine of central Italy and, along with Sangiovese, forms the foundation for many of the best red wines in the region. Among the top Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wines, you’ll find the “Riserva” type, which undergoes an aging period of at least two years, including nine months in wooden containers.

11. Taurasi

Region: Campania

Taurasi, one of Italy’s best-known and most appreciated wines, is revered for its austere elegance, evolutionary potential, and refined aromas. Produced in the Campania region, specifically in the province of Avellino, this DOCG wine is made from the Aglianico grape variety (85-100%), with the addition of other complementary non-aromatic red grape varieties (up to 15%).

Taurasi must be aged for at least three years from the year of harvest, including at least one year in wooden barrels before being released for sale. Taurasi Riserva, on the other hand, requires a minimum of four years of aging, including at least 18 months in wooden barrels.

In conclusion, Italy offers a vast array of exceptional wines, each with its unique characteristics, flavors, and regional influences. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to explore the diverse world of Italian wines, the options are endless. From the elegant Brunello di Montalcino to the bold Barolo, and from the sparkling Franciacorta to the fruity Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, there’s an Italian wine for every palate and occasion. So, raise a glass and toast to the rich and diverse world of Italian wines! Salute!

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