Best Italian Wines to Drink This Year

If you’re a wine lover but only know, say, California or France, do not miss the opportunity to sample the incredible diversity that Italy has to offer. This country, renowned for its passion for gastronomy, also excels in winemaking. From robust Italian red wines to refreshing Italian sparkling styles, there’s a wine perfect for every mood and occasion.

Top Wine Regions of Italy

Italy is home to a wide range of wine regions, each with its own charm and specialties. Here are some of the most notable, which you will find at California’s best wine store:

Tuscany: This region is famous for its world-renowned red wines, such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. These wines are known for their elegance and balanced body, making them ideal companions for pasta dishes and meat-based meals. When you buy Italian wine, do not forget a bottle of Chianti!

Suggestion: 2019 Castell'in Villa Chianti Classico

Campania: Recognized as another among the country’s top wine regions, Campania combines ideal climate, soil, and winemaking techniques to produce wines of high quality and great distinction. Its vineyards stretch across scenic hills and valleys, creating a stunning landscape ideal for growing exceptional grape varieties.

Suggestion for a real treat, try the 2013 Perillo Taurasi made from Aglianico. 

Piedmont: This is the birthplace of one of Italy’s most celebrated wines—Barolo. Known as the “king of wines,” Barolo is made from the Nebbiolo grape and stands out for its firm structure and intense aromas. When you shop Italian wine online, Bottle Barn offers a hand-curated selection of Piedmont wines, especially Barolo.

Suggestion: Sample the 2020 Brovia Barolo Villero or the 2016 E. Pira e Figli Chiara Boschis Barolo Cannubi.

Sicily: A relative newcomer on the international wine scene, the D.O.C. Sicilia is shaped by the presence of Mount Etna. Many local customs, traditions, and cultural elements are tied to this powerful volcano. Sicilian wines reflect the volcanic soil and Mediterranean climate, offering bold flavors and captivating aromas.

Suggestion: Savor a white wine! The 2023 Tascante Buonora Etna Bianco. 

Veneto: Ideal for sparkling wine lovers, Veneto is the home of Prosecco—a fresh, bubbly wine that has become a go-to for celebratory toasts. The region also produces bold reds like Amarone from Valpolicella, known for their richness and fruit-forward character.

Suggestion: Pick up the 2021 Allegrini Palazzo della Torre Veronese when you buy Italian wine online.

Sardinia: This island stands out as one of Italy’s most compelling and important wine regions. Its wines capture the passion and winemaking heritage of the area. With ample sunshine and distinctive soils, Sardinia is perfect for cultivating unique native varieties. Reds like Cannonau are prized for their body and intensity, with flavors of ripe fruit and spice. Whites like Vermentino shine with citrusy, floral freshness.

Suggestion: Try an unusual grape variety in the 2021 Pala Oltreluna Monica di Sardegna.

Grape Varieties and Characteristics of Italian Wines

Italian wines are defined by diversity and authenticity. Each region and grape variety brings its own distinct qualities. Here are some of the most prominent:

Sangiovese: This native Italian grape stars in Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. Sangiovese wines usually balance acidity and tannins, offering notes of red fruit and spice.

Nebbiolo: The backbone of Piedmont’s acclaimed Barolo and Barbaresco wines, Nebbiolo is known for its firm tannins, complex aromas of rose, cherry, and truffle, and remarkable aging potential.

Glera: This is the grape behind Prosecco. Wines made from Glera are celebrated for their freshness, delicate bubbles, and citrus-floral notes—perfect for casual occasions and festive gatherings.

Italian wines are true gems in the global wine world, offering a rich array of styles and flavors. From Tuscany’s elegant reds to Veneto’s invigorating sparklers, Italy delivers a wine experience like no other. Don’t hesitate to explore the wines from its top regions at Bottle Barn.

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