From the vines of Italy come some of the more well-known, most famous wines in the world. Although Italian wines are generally red, there are some that are white and golden in color. Italian wines found in the UK are generally classified into systems mirroring that of French: Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) or Denominazione di Origine Controllata et Garantita (DOCG). The DOCG wines supposedly are higher quality. Wines are also categorized in different regions: Northern Italy, Central Italy, Southern Italy, and Vintages.
A frequently age-worthy wine, Barolo, originated in Piedmont, is possibly the greatest Italian red wine. Although quite tannic in its youth, Barolo is made from the Nebbiolo grape. Barbaresco, also made by Nebbiolo grapes, is more amicable than Barolo and possibly cheaper. Barolo and Barbaresco are DOCG wines.
One of Barolo’s premium winemaking dynasties and located in Northern Italy is Aldo Conterno vineyard. An entry level Barolo, Barolo Bussia Soprana is possibly the most appreciated and widely seen wine. It comes from vines that are aged at least 20 years. Barolo Colonnello also comes from Conterno, however it is aged for 35-40 years.
Also from Northern Italy, a wine from the Enzo Boglietti Estate is Enzo Boglietti Dolcetto d’Alba Tiglineri 2003. It is a leafy, sweet, black cherry wine that has a yielding ripeness with moderate acidity. With a mild tannic grip, it leaves a nice sweet fruity taste on the palate.
Other significant wines from the Northern region made in Piedmont are made with unconventional blends or international varieties. With a good reputation outside the regions of Barolo and Barbesco is La Spinetta ran by Giorgi Rivetti located in Castagnoe Lanze. This vineyards most major wine is Pin. Pin has a variation of 50% Nebbiolo with 25% of both Barbera and Cabernet Sauvignon. It was Produced under Monferrato Rosso DOC. In part, Gaja revolutionized wines and prices in Piedmont. One wine from Gaja vineyards, run by Angelo Gaja, is Gaja Sito Moresco (Langhe) 1996 with roasted black fruits and herbs of cloves.
From the Northern Soave region comes wonderful white wines and some of the best-known wines. Using 100% Garganega, eschewing barrique fermentation or ageing, Pieropan is run by a third generation husband and wife Nino and Teresita Pieropan. Pieropan Soave La Rocca 2000 is golden in color with a tint of green and has grapefruit and other citrus fruit aromas with hints of honey, fresh white bread and stone fruit. Pieropan Soave Classico 2001 is also golden, but has a melon and stone fruit aroma with a spicy palate.
Chianti comes from Central Italy and is possibly the best well known of all the Italian red wine. Its made from the Sangiovese grapes, along with a small portion of other grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon.
Previously owned by Cinzano, producers of Vermouth, Argiano is the most reliable estates in Montalcino. ArgianoBrunello di Montalcino 1997 has a great red color with floral aromas of candied blackcurrants, violets, and cherry.
From the Southern Region is Planeta vineyards with Planeta Cometa 2004. Cometa is rich and golden colored with candied fruit aromas, honey and oak.
Vintages are classified among wines. For Barolo and Barbaresco, vintages include 1985, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1993, and most of the late 1990s. For Chianti, 1997 is the most lauded, while the late 1990s have also been flourishing. Avoid 1991 and 1992.
Resources:
Wine Doctor, Italian Wine Guide, retrieved January 21, 2008 from http://www.thewinedoctor.com/regionalguides/italy.shtml
