The Best Italian Wines—From Reds and Whites to Everything in Between

Rewinding 4,000 years to 800 BC, when the Greeks dubbed Italy "Oenotria"—"The Land of Vines"—it wasn’t just a praise to its passionate winemaking on fertile land, but a big, big prophecy. Today, wine lovers of all stripes seek out the best Italian wines, as Italy is a master of masters, an old-school holding the oldest and richest wine tradition with the charm of a true trailblazer. It’s no wonder Italy continues to lead in wine production by volume, with a staggering 50 million hectoliters—roughly 1,994 Olympic-sized pools of wine as of 2022. Whoa!

If you’re on the hunt for great Italian wines, this blog post has you covered. We present a curated list of top-rated Italian wines, drawn from Italy’s vast landscape—like gold from a mine—boasting over 350 grape varieties spread across more than 1 million vineyards, managed by over 310,000 wineries in 20 wine regions, most notably Tuscany, Piedmont, and Venato.

Whether you’re searching for the best Italian red wines, such as the exceptional Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, or the best Italian white wines, including stellar Pinot Grigio or dazzling Prosecco, you’ll find your perfect match. Moreover, most of these wines hail from designation-controlled DOC and DOCG regions, promising those extra scoops of quality on their blended taste and tradition—whether you enjoy them on your own or share them with loved ones.

So, why wait? Explore Italy’s great Italian wines and grab a good Italian wine today!

Best Italian Red Wines

In the global wine scene, Italy is the true hotspot for red wines. How? The answer lies in the powerful intertwining of its ancient winemaking knowledge and diverse terroir—starting from the North’s cool, pine regions to the South's sun-soaked vineyards, further nuanced in mountains, plains, and coastal areas of volcanic, limestone, clay, sandy, and loam soils. The varied taste of Italian reds reflects this diversity well, ranging from the bright, fruity sangiovese wines of Tuscany to the complex, tannic nebbiolo wines of Piedmont and beyond—all ideal well for cool seasons and hearty food pairings.

Explore the top rated Italian red wines and let your taste buds revel.

• Barolo: Piedmont’s Bold & Tannic Nebbiolo

Barolo is a dry, full-bodied, luxurious red that hails from Piedmont, specifically the Barolo region. This broad-shouldered wine is 100% made from Nebbiolo grapes that beautifully express the region's one-off terroir—a mix of calcareous clay and sandy soils, a continental climate, and a hilly backdrop that boosts sun-soaking and drainage. It has a long aging caliber and taste, often powerful with tannins, racy with high acidity, and complex with flavors of tar, roses, cherries, and truffles. No wonder it's titled "King of Wines" and is the flagship wine of Piedmont or Italy, safe to say.

Good Italian Red Wine To Pair: Braised Meats, Mushroom Risotto, Aged Cheeses, Truffle Dishes, Hearty Pasta With Rich Sauces

Best Barolo Wines:

• Brunello Di Montalcino: Montalcino’s Rich & Earthy Sangiovese

If Barolo is Piedmont's Neibbolo star, then Brunello di Montalcino got to be the Sangiovese star from Tuscany's Montalcino. Both wines are somewhat dopplegangers, as Brunello wines are also luxurious, dry, full-bodied, super-tannic, and age-worthy, yet unique with flavors of cherry, leather, and earthy notes—all showcasing how gracefully sangiovese (locally known as Brunello) flourishes in Monatalcino's rich terroir of clay-rich, sandy, and limestone soils, with microclimates of warm days and cool nights and hilly terrains. Though it is low-production, it stands for quality over quantity, earning it a strong following both in Italy and abroad.

Good Italian Red Wine To Pair: Grilled Steak, Roasted Game, Aged Pecorino, Wild Boar Ragu, Rich Tomato-Based Pasta Dishes

• Chianti Classico: Tuscany’s Dry & Spicy Classic

Unlike single-varietal Barolo and Brunello, Chianti Classico is a dry, medium-bodied red blend from Tuscany, specifically the Chianti Classico region. It primarily blends Sangiovese with native Canaiolo and Colorino, or international Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. This fusion turns each sip into a delicious orchestra of vibrant acidity, red cherry, plum, and earthy undertones with hints of tobacco and spices, all while reminiscing about terroir—from hilly terrains to continental climates and soil mash of clay, limestone, and sandstone. Price-wise, it is average and beloved domestically, as well as in the US, UK, and Germany.

Good Italian Red Wine To Pair: Grilled Meats, Pasta With Tomato Sauce, Aged Cheeses, Charcuterie, Roasted Vegetables

Best Chianti Classico Wines:

• Amarone Della Valpolicella: Veneto’s Bold & Intense Red

Amarone Della Valpolicella is a fancy dry, full-bodied red from Veneto, specifically the Valpolicella region, and what gifts Veneto ideal growing conditions is its colossal mix of limestone, clay, and volcanic soils—all bedded on lush rolling hills that well bask in the sun, rain, and that climate-moderating breeze from neighboring Lake Garda. Made from partially dried Corvina, Rondinelli, and other native grapes, this wine offers a rich, silky taste with concentrated red fruit and earthy flavors. Revered both in Italy as well as abroad, it’s truly a niche yet lucrative segment.

Good Italian Red Wine To Pair: Rich Stews, Roasted Meats, Aged Parmesan, Game Dishes, Dark Chocolate

Best Amarone Della Valpolicella Wines:

• Super Tuscans: Italy’s Revolutionary & Complex Red Blends

As the name suggests, Super Tuscans are standout red wines from Tuscany, and what makes these dry, full-bodied reds so special is their bold departure from Italian winemaking rules to form a rebellious union of native Sangiovese with international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. This blend captures the essence of sea-kissed and sun-touched coastal Tuscany—particularly Bolgheri—resulting in powerful, complex, age-worthy wines with dark fruit, spice, tobacco, and leather flavors. After revolutionizing Italian winemaking, Super Tuscans have emerged as a sought-after high-end Italian wine category on the global stage.

Good Italian Red Wine To Pair: Grilled Steak, Lamb Chops, Truffle Dishes, Aged Cheeses, Hearty Pasta With Meat Sauces

Best Super Tuscan Wines:

• Dolcetto d’Alba & Barbera d’Asti: Piedmont’s Hidden Red Gems

Introducing two top-rated Italian red wines from Piedmont's that are no less than budding stars: Dolcetto d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti. While both are dry, heavy, and priced from entry-level to mid-range, they differ in grape variety, region, and flavor profile. Dolcetto d'Alba, made from Dolcetto grapes from cooler, limestone-rich soils in Alba, offers fruity notes of black cherry and almond, with softer tannins and a slightly bitter finish. Contrarily, Barbera d'Asti, made from Barbera grapes from warmer, sandier soils in Asti, is more acidic with red fruit flavors, often with a touch of spice and earthiness.

Good Italian Red Wine To Pair:

Dolcetto D’alba - Pizza, Antipasti, Grilled Sausages, Mushroom Dishes

Barbera D’asti -Tomato-Based Pasta, Grilled Meats, Risotto, Aged Cheeses

Best Dolcetto d’Alba and Best Barbera d’Asti:

Best Italian White Wines

While reds are the most prolific among Italian wines, it might come as a surprise that volume-wise white wines give a hefty beat, accounting for over 57% of the nation's total wine production. Why? Dominant grape varieties like refreshing Pinot Grigio, light fruity Trebbiano, delicately floral Glera, and richly textured Chardonnay flourish with sheer excellence in prominent regions like Tuscany, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto Adige. No wonder, their racy crispiness makes them great substitutes for reds in warmer seasons and lighter food pairings.

Explore the best Italian white wines and uncork the refreshing charm in no time.

• Pinot Grigio: Italy’s Crisp & Refreshing White

Among Italian white wines, Pinot Grigio is a cult classic! This dry, light-bodied grape thrives in Italy's cooler regions, which remarkably preserve its crisp acidity. Notable regions include Veneto of clay and alluvial soils, Friuli-Venezia Giulia of marl and sandstone, and Trentino-Alto Adige of limestone and gravelly soils. For more than half a century, Pinot Grigios of Italy has been quite a buzz locally as well as in the US, UK, and Germany, who look for the best expression of this variety—straightforwardly light, crisp, and refreshing, with notes of green apple, citrus, and sometimes almond.

Good Italian White Wine To Pair: Light Salads, Seafood, Grilled Chicken, Fresh Cheeses

Best Pinot Grigio Italy Wines:

• Chardonnay: The Silky & Golden Icon of Italian Whites

Another Italian white hot topic has to be Chardonnay, which miraculously flaunts its dry, dense personality on a wide flavorful spectrum at affordable prices—from crisp and mineral-driven to rich and creamy, often accented with ripe apple, pear, citrus, and oak. This tasteful diversity comes from the terroir: Alto Adige's cool climate and mineral-rich soils produce crisp, Sicily's warm climate yields more fruit-forwarded, and Lombardy offers rich, complex chardonnays. Beloved for being crowd-pleasers, Italian Chardonnays even star in prestigious sparkling wines like Franciacorta.

Good Italian White Wine To Pair: Roast Chicken, Creamy Pasta, Grilled Fish, Aged Cheeses

Best Chardonnay Italy Wines:

• Trebbiano: The Fresh & Zesty Everyday Italian Classic

The beauty of Trebbiano can’t be overstated, as it’s the standout native white grape in the Italian wine scene. Nearly a third of Italy's white wine production comes from this dry, plush variety, widely celebrated in regions like Tuscany, Umbria, and Emilia-Romagna for producing budget-friendly light, neat finish wines with notes of green apple, lemon, and a touch of minerality. Known as Ugni Blanc in France, Trebbiano also returns the favor of French-rooted adopted varieties like Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay by playing a key role in Cognac production and other white wines.

Good Italian White Wine To Pair: Light Salads, Seafood, Grilled Vegetables, Fresh Cheeses

Best Trebbiano Italy Wines:

Best Italian Sparkling Wines

Without a doubt, Italy is in the limelight of the wine world, but what takes its show-stealer grace a mile ahead is its sparkling wines. These wines are true confetti of dazzling vibrancy, feverishly obsessing wine lovers across the globe to toast their occasions, from celebrations to casual gatherings to festive meals, with the added advantage of affordability and approachability. The big player is definitely Prosecco, while the rising stars, Malvasia di Casorzo Spumante, Moscato D'Asti and Franciacorta, are strengthening the Italian sparkling wine portfolio day by day.

Explore the best Italian sparkling wines and add a touch of sparkle to any moment.

• Prosecco: The Sparkling Star of Veneto

Prosecco, hailing from Veneto, is Italy’s most popular sparkling wine, renowned for its light, effervescent charm and affordability. Made primarily from Glera grapes, this wine offers a crisp, refreshing profile with notes of green apple, pear, and white flowers. Prosecco’s lively bubbles and delicate sweetness make it perfect for celebrations, casual sipping, and pairing with a variety of dishes. Its approachable style and pleasant fizz have made it a global favorite, embodying the festive spirit of Italian winemaking.

Good Italian Sparkling Wine To Pair: Light Appetizers, Seafood, Fried Foods, Fresh Fruit

Best Prosecco Wines

• Piedmont's Sparklings: Sweet & Bubbly Treasures

Piedmont is celebrated for its unique sparkling wines, including Malvasia di Casorzo Spumante and Moscato d’Asti. Malvasia di Casorzo Spumante offers a sweet, aromatic experience with flavors of red berries and floral notes, characterized by its soft, persistent bubbles. Moscato d’Asti, on the other hand, is renowned for its vibrant sweetness, low alcohol content, and effervescent quality, featuring juicy peach, apricot, and honey flavors. Both wines are perfect for those who enjoy sweeter, fruit-forward sparklers, ideal for sugar-laden foods, brunches, or casual celebrations.

Good Italian Sparkling Wine To Pair:

Malvasia Di Casorzo Spumante - Fresh Fruit, Light Pastries, Mild Cheeses

Moscato D’asti - Desserts Like Fruit Tarts, Pastries, Light Cheeses

Best Malvasia di Casorzo Spumante and Best Moscato d’Asti:

• Franciacorta: Italy’s Luxurious, Champagne-Style Sparkler

Franciacorta is Italy’s premier sparkling wine that rivals Champagne in both elegance and complexity. Produced in the Franciacorta region of Lombardy, this wine is crafted using the traditional méthode Champenoise with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc grapes. It offers a sophisticated profile with fine bubbles, rich flavors of toasted bread, honey, and citrus, along with a creamy texture. Franciacorta’s meticulous production and refined taste make it an exceptional choice for special occasions and formal events, embodying the luxurious side of Italian sparkling wine.

Good Italian Sparkling Wine To Pair: Seafood, Light Appetizers, Creamy Risotto, Fresh Cheeses

Best Franciacorta Wines:

Best Italian Rosé Wines

While reds, then whites, and then sparklings dominate the Italian wine scene, Rosatos—Italy’s distinctive rosé wines—offer fierce competition, even with their smaller presence. What sets Italian rosés apart is their exceptional winemaking approach.. Winemakers use native grapes like Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Montepulcino to craft blush wines across diverse terroirs and styles, from light-hued, crisp varieties in northern regions like Veneto to deeper, full-bodied options in the southern regions like Puglia—all perfect for warm-weather sipping and pairing with a range of lighter dishes.

Explore the best Italian rosé wines and create petal-soft memories with real rosato fever.

• Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo: The Fruity & Floral Pink of Abruzzo

Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo is a standout rosé from the Abruzzo region, known for its deep, vibrant pink color and bold character. Made primarily from Montepulciano grapes, this rosé offers rich, expressive flavors of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of spice. Its medium-bodied profile and lively acidity make it sort of a food pairing all-rounder. Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo’s striking hue and robust taste bring a touch of elegance and complexity to any occasion.

Good Italian Rosé Wine To Pair: Grilled Vegetables, Pasta With Tomato Sauce, Seafood, Charcuterie

Best Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo Wines:

• Chiaretto: Veneto’s Dry and Bright Blush

Chiaretto, produced in the Veneto region, is a delightful rosé known for its light, crisp character and delicate floral notes. Made from a blend of native varieties like Corvina and Rondinella, Chiaretto showcases flavors of fresh strawberries, citrus, and subtle herbs. Its refreshing acidity and pale pink color make it an excellent choice for warm weather, perfect for pairing with seafood, salads, and light appetizers. Chiaretto embodies the essence of Veneto’s charming, easy-drinking rosé style.

Good Italian Rosé Wine To Pair: Light Salads, Seafood, Grilled Chicken, Fresh Cheeses

Best Chiaretto Wines:

• Rosato di Toscana: Veneto’s Vibrant & Fruity Rosé Reverie

Rosato di Toscana is a refined rosé from Tuscany, celebrated for its elegant balance and vibrant flavor profile. Crafted from Sangiovese and other local varieties, this rosé features notes of ripe red berries, citrus zest, and a hint of minerality. Its medium-bodied nature and bright acidity make it a versatile player at dinner tables, providing savvy company for a variety of meals. Rosato di Toscana reflects the sophistication of Tuscan winemaking, offering a stylish and enjoyable rosé experience.

Good Italian Rosé Wine To Pair: Light Pasta Dishes, Grilled Seafood, Salads, Antipasti

Best Rosato di Toscana Wines:

Final Thoughts

We’re confident this blog has given you a golden glimpse into the Italian wine world, offering a diverse range of the best Italian wines—from bold reds and tender rosés to bright whites and glitzy sparklings.

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