Italy’s Hidden Gems: Exploring the World of Great White Wines
“Drinking white wine is like kissing your sister while drinking red wine is like kissing your lover” Lucio Sorre
As much as I loved listening to Lucio talk about Italian wines, I think he might have changed his famous line above if he could taste these wines now. Italian whites have come such a long way in the last ten years with better vineyard management, fermentation techniques, and of course better technology.
When it comes to Italian wines, most people immediately think of rich, bold reds like Brunello or Barolo. However, Italy has a well-kept secret that deserves much more recognition: its remarkable white wines. From the charming region of Piedmont to the sun-soaked vineyards of Tuscany and the volcanic slopes of southern Italy, Italy’s white wines offer a captivating journey for wine enthusiasts. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of Italy’s lesser-known white varietals and regions that deserve the spotlight.
Piedmont’s Arneis and Gavi
Piedmont, renowned for its world-class Barolo and Barbaresco reds, also boasts two exceptional white wines: Arneis and Gavi. Arneis, a crisp and aromatic varietal, offers a delightful bouquet of citrus fruits and delicate floral notes. Its refreshing acidity and balanced minerality make it a perfect match for seafood dishes and light appetizers. On the other hand, Gavi, crafted from the Cortese grape, exhibits a vibrant character with flavors of green apple, white peach, and a touch of almond. Gavi’s versatility allows it to pair beautifully with everything from grilled vegetables to creamy pasta dishes.
Tuscan Treasures: Vermentino and Vernaccia di San Gimignano
Tuscany, renowned for its rolling hills, historic towns, and iconic red wines, also offers two white varietals that deserve a special place on your wine list: Vermentino and Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Vermentino, a Mediterranean gem, thrives in the coastal regions, benefiting from the sea breeze that imparts a distinctive saline character to the wine. With its vibrant acidity, citrusy flavors, and floral aromas, Vermentino is a refreshing choice for warm summer days. Meanwhile, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, grown in the heart of Tuscany, surprises with its rich texture, notes of ripe pear and white flowers, and a zesty finish. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with Tuscan cuisine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano delights the palate with its complexity.
Friuli Venezia Giulia: Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio, and Friulano
In the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, a white wine lover’s paradise awaits. Known for its exceptional quality, this region produces remarkable Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Friulano wines. Sauvignon Blanc from Friuli exhibits a unique profile, combining the classic herbaceous and citrusy notes with a distinctive mineral undertone. Pinot Grigio lovers will be pleasantly surprised by the richness and complexity of the versions from Friuli, displaying flavors of ripe pear, white peach, and a touch of spice. Lastly, Friulano, the region’s flagship white grape, showcases a beautiful balance of fruitiness and acidity, often with aromas of white flowers and ripe stone fruits. These wines beautifully represent Friuli Venezia Giulia’s winemaking excellence.
Volcanic Whites: Greco di Tufo, Cataratto, Falanghina, and Fiano di Avellino
Southern Italy, with its volcanic soil and sun-drenched vineyards, is home to some exceptional white wines. The volcanic terroir lends unique characteristics to the grapes, resulting in wines with distinct minerality and complexity. Greco di Tufo, hailing from Campania, captivates with its vibrant acidity, citrus flavors, and fascinating smoky undertone. Cataratto, native to Sicily, offers a crisp and refreshing profile with delicate floral aromas.
Please give these white wines their due and crack open a few bottles of each while entertaining this Summer. Your friends will love you even more!
