Italy is the land of vineyards, and its winemaking culture goes back centuries. Many visitors think that the wine culture of Italy is predominantly found in the region of Tuscany.  While Tuscany is central Italy’s most important wine region with a viticulture that is second to none, here we want to explore the other major contenders in the world of wine making and some of the best wine regions in Italy.  Join us as we delve into the different grape varieties and exquisite wines available in the different Italian wine areas.

Italian wine regions beyond Tuscany

Tuscany may be the first place that comes to mind when it comes to delicious wine but that is not the only place in Italy known for its wine culture. In this article we will explore beyond the trodden path and delve into other Italian wine districts, from Piedmont to Sicily, each area offers excellent wines and an immersion into local wine-making traditions.

Piedmont

The Piedmont wine region is located in the north of Italy at the foot of the Western Alps and is one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. Thanks to its geographical location at the foothills of the western Alps, the Nebbiolo grape has flourished there, producing high tannin, floral red wines including Barolo and Barbaresco. However, the region’s most famous export comes from the area surrounding the town of Asti: the Moscato d’Asti, a sweet and sparkling wine. Piedmont focuses on small family run wineries where innovation and experimentation sit side by side with tradition.

Umbria

Although not widely known outside of Italy, wine is grown all over the green and luscious region of Umbria. Umbrian wine is loved within Italy for its variety and full bodied flavours. The most famous red in Umbria is Sagrantino, traditionally enjoyed around Easter. Other reds include ‘ciliegiolo’, Montepulciano and the Gamay grape. As far is whites go, the most famed in Umbria is Grechetto, which is aromatic and floral. Another popular white is Trebbiano, which is light and full of citrus flavours.

Friuli Venezia Giulia

Set between the Alps and the Adriatic, the region of Friuli is sometimes forgotten when it comes to wine viticulture. However, its geographical location, bordering Austria and Slovenia, means that it has had a wonderful mix of influences throughout the generations. This may be why the wines being produced here differ greatly to the rest of Italy’s wines. Here the wines are light and refreshing white wines, such as the beloved Friulano.

Calabria

The large peninsula of Calabria is situated between the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian sea. The Greeks were the first to cultivate grapes here, yet the Calabria wine region has had many influences over the generations. The climate is distinctly Mediterranean, the perfect environment for grapes such as Gaglioppo and Greco Nero.

Campania

Characterised for its unique terroir and diverse grape varieties. Campania wine, made in this stunning province, produces zesty whites such as the Falanghina and the Fiano and full bodied reds such as Aglianico and Piedirosso. The wine region of Campania is made up of a combination of small family run vineyards to enormous international wine sellers.

Abruzzo

Set along the Adriatic, the region of Abruzzo produces excellent wines, including rosés, sparkling whites, and reds. The most notable grapes grown are the Montepulciano, Trebbiano and Pecorino. The region has been awarded various highly prestigious awards for their delicious wines, one of which is the Valentini Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2016, which is not only one of the best in the region of Abruzzo, but ranked as one of the best wines in Italy.

Sicily

Sicily is home to some very distinct wines due to the differing microclimates of the area. The three main red grapes used in Sicilian wine production are the Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Nerello Mascalese. Sicilian wines vary, from the ever popular Marsala wine to innovative experimental wines, but all can be identified for their light, fruity and elegant undertones.

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Italy is renowned for its exquisite wine, and the wine enthusiast can go beyond the Tuscan hills and explore what else Italy has to offer with ease. From the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Piedmont with its classic Barolo to the Marsala in Sicily, there will be something for every palette. So, come and explore these wonderful wine regions for yourself.

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