Wines from Italy

Italy produces a broad range of wines, including white, red, rosé, sparkling and sweet (dessert) wines. Popular Italian wines include elegant classic reds like Barolo (made from Nebbiolo) and Chianti (based on Sangiovese), refreshing whites like Pinot Grigio and Verdicchio and world-famous sparkling wines like Prosecco and Franciacorta.

The taste of Italian wine varies widely by region, style, the wine grapes used, and the soil and topographical characteristics of where the grapes are grown. Fruity Italian wines, like the bold reds of Puglia in the south, showcase deep fruit and spice notes, while the powerful wines of Amarone in the norht are influenced by the traditional appassimento method of air-drying grapes, which leads to deeper, more intense layers of flavor. Crisp whites such as Soave or Pinot Grigio offer refreshing citrus and delicate floral aromas. A sweet Italian wine like Moscato d’Asti is light, aromatic, and gently sparkling. Overall, dry Italian reds tend to feature bright acidity and often firm tannins (like in Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Barolo).

Buy Italian wine online today and explore the diverse flavors that make wine from Italy truly exceptional.

Italy’s wine regions are as diverse as the country itself, each producing unique wines. Some of the most famous wine regions include:

• Piedmont, known for its iconic Barolo
• Tuscany, famous for Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino
• Veneto, renowned for its Prosecco sparkling wines and rich Amarone reds
• Sicily, whose flagship red is the bold Nero d'Avola
• Puglia, for fruit-forward and silky reds like Primitivo

These regions, among others, offer a wide variety of wines that reflect Italy's diverse terroirs and winemaking traditions.

These labels indicate quality classifications in Italian wine, all of which are regulated by Italian law under the Normative Regulation of the Wine Sector (Legge 238/2016):

DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita). The highest classification—ensuring strict regulations on production, aging and geographical boundaries. It guarantees quality and authenticity.

DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata). High-quality wines from defined regions, with specific production rules to ensure consistency and regional identity.

IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica). A more flexible category that allows winemakers creativity while maintaining regional identity and quality standards.

For a classic gift, Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino are excellent choices for red wine lovers, offering depth and complexity. For something sparkling, Prosecco provides an elegant touch.

Shop Italian wine gift baskets for a curated selection of the best Italian wines. You can also opt for a mix of fine wines and everyday Italian classics perfect for any occasion and sure to delight any wine enthusiast.

Some of Italy's most celebrated red wines include Barolo, Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Amarone. These wines offer a spectrum of flavors, from bright red fruits and earthy notes (like Chianti) to richer, darker-fruited wines with greater structure (such as Amarone).

Red wines like Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino pair beautifully with rich dishes such as braised meats, game or aged cheeses. Chianti complements pasta with tomato-based sauces, while Amarone pairs well with rich stews or grilled steaks.

Italy is renowned for whites like Pinot Grigio, Verdicchio, Soave, and Vermentino. These vary from crisp and citrusy to fuller-bodied with floral and nutty notes.

Pinot Grigio pairs well with mild cheeses, Verdicchio complements seafood and soft cheeses, Soave suits aged cheeses and meats, while Vermentino works well with shellfish and salads.

Italy’s top sparkling wines include Prosecco from Veneto. Here are some standout options from WSJ Wine: - Alessandro Gallici Prosecco Rosé Anniversario. A special-edition pink Prosecco made from organic grapes that is presented in a uniquely beautiful bottle and crafted by the masterful Alessandro Gallici.

Alessandro Gallici Prosecco. Light, crisp, and gold medal-winning, Alessandro's signature Prosecco is perfect for life's celebratory moments.

Lustrato Prosecco. From winemaker Alessio Rossetto, it offers ripe peach and pear notes carried on a wave of creamy bubbles.

For a great alternative to Prosecco, try:

Capisco Ribolla Gialla Spumante. Locals in the northeastern Italy have a sparkling secret: Ribolla Gialla. This lively example of the grape from the Anselmi family is sure to please.

Altestelle Spumante. This comes from Puglia in the sunny south and star winemaker Francesco Fortunato. An elegant and complex alternative to Prosecco at a great price.