Wines of Italy
With an upcoming trip to Italy on the horizon, I was excited to dive into the rich and diverse world of Italian wines. Italy, with its 20 wine regions, offers a range of styles, from crisp whites and bold reds to delightful sparkling varieties. Each region offers something unique, shaped by local traditions, climate, and terroir. As I started planning out which regions to visit, I did a little research on the wines that I’ll want to try along the way and, what dishes to pair them with!
Starting in the north, Lombardy is home to Franciacorta, a sparkling wine that's less known than the popular Prosecco. Unlike Prosecco, which is made using the Charmat method (fermented in large tanks), Franciacorta is produced using the traditional method like Champagne, giving it a richer, more complex flavor. This wine pairs well with local specialties like risotto alla milanese, made with saffron, or polenta e osei, a rustic dish featuring polenta and small birds.
Traveling east to Veneto, is the home of Prosecco. Light, refreshing, and fruity, it’s a staple for any casual gathering. A glass of Prosecco pairs perfectly with seafood risotto or baccalà mantecato, a creamy salted cod spread served on toasted bread. The region is also famous for Amarone, a rich, bold red wine made from partially dried grapes. This full-bodied wine pairs beautifully with roasted meats.
Heading down to Tuscany, one of Italy’s most famous wine regions, Chianti. Known for its sharp acidity, cherry notes, and savory character, Chianti pairs well with classic Tuscan dishes like pappa al pomodoro, a bread and tomato soup.
In the southern region of Campania, is Fiano di Avellino, a white wine with a rich, nutty flavor and a hint of tropical fruit. This wine complements the region’s seafood-focused cuisine, particularly dishes like spaghetti with clam or crispy mixed fried seafood.
Lastly, on the island of Sicily, Nero d’Avola is the region’s signature red. It’s bold with notes of dark fruit and a touch of spice. It pairs perfectly with Sicilian staples like pasta alla norma—a rich pasta dish with eggplant and ricotta—or arancini, the famous fried rice balls stuffed with ragù or cheese. My favorite!
I can’t wait to taste some new wines and make new memories on my upcoming trip!