Discover Italy Through Its Iconic Wines: A Journey for the Senses
Italy is a country where every glass of wine tells a story of sun-soaked vineyards, age-old traditions, and regions that feel like stepping into a living postcard.
For those who love both travel and fine wine, there’s no better way to explore Italy than by tracing its most celebrated varietals to their sources. Here’s a mini guide to Italy’s must-visit wine regions and the signature wines that make them unforgettable.
Piedmont: The Home of Barolo and Barbera
In the northwest of Italy, Piedmont is a region of rolling green hills and misty mornings. This area is famed for Barolo, known as the "King of Wines" for its bold, age-worthy character, and Barbera, a fruit-forward red that’s easier to drink young.
You’ll find charming villages, UNESCO-listed vineyards, and a slow-paced lifestyle perfect for wine lovers. Take a leisurely drive through the Langhe hills, where vineyard-covered slopes stretch as far as the eye can see. Visit local wineries for intimate tastings and explore the town of Alba, famous for its white truffles. The region also offers scenic cycling routes and truffle-hunting experiences during the autumn season.
Stay at Casa Brera, an elegant retreat offering panoramic vineyard views, refined suites, and personalized wine tours to immerse yourself in the local viticulture.
Tuscany: Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino
Tuscany’s iconic landscapes of cypress-lined roads and golden vineyards are the heart of Italy’s wine country. Chianti Classico is a lively red wine with cherry and herbal notes, while Brunello di Montalcino is a richer, more structured wine perfect for aging.
Beyond the wine, you can explore medieval hilltop towns like Siena, wander the cobbled streets of San Gimignano, or relax in the natural hot springs of Bagno Vignoni. Art lovers will enjoy the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, while history enthusiasts can explore the ancient city walls of Lucca.
For a luxury stay, consider Villa San Michele, a restored 15th-century monastery with breathtaking views of Florence, or the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, offering a blend of Renaissance elegance and modern comfort in the heart of the city.
Sicily: Etna Rosso and Nero d’Avola
Sicily’s diverse landscapes range from volcanic slopes to sun-drenched coastlines. Etna Rosso, made from Nerello Mascalese grapes on Mount Etna’s volcanic soil, is a light, elegant red with mineral undertones. Nero d’Avola, on the other hand, is bold and full of dark fruit flavours.
Explore the ancient Greek theatre in Taormina, hike the lunar-like landscapes of Mount Etna, or unwind on the pristine beaches along the island’s southern coast. You can also visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient Greek ruins.
Unwind at the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, a luxurious property perched above Taormina with sweeping views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, offering impeccable service and curated Sicilian experiences.
Veneto: Prosecco and Amarone
Veneto in northern Italy offers a mix of alpine beauty and Venetian charm. Prosecco, Italy’s most famous sparkling wine, is produced here, offering crisp and refreshing bubbles. Amarone, a rich and velvety red wine, is made from dried grapes, giving it a distinctive depth.
Discover the picturesque vineyards around Valdobbiadene, or take a romantic gondola ride through the canals of Venice. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Dolomite mountains for hiking and skiing, while Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, offers a romantic and historic atmosphere.
Indulge in comfort at Aman Venice, housed in a 16th-century palazzo with grand canal views, or the San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice, a private island sanctuary offering refined luxury just minutes from St. Mark’s Square.
Alto Adige: Pinot Grigio and Gewürztraminer
Tucked against the Austrian border, Alto Adige boasts dramatic mountain scenery and a unique blend of Italian and Germanic culture. This region is known for its crisp, refreshing white wines like Pinot Grigio and the aromatic Gewürztraminer.
Enjoy scenic drives through the vineyards of the Adige Valley, explore the charming city of Bolzano with its medieval architecture, or hike the jagged peaks of the Dolomites. In winter, the region transforms into a ski paradise, while summer offers lush trails and alpine lakes to explore.
Stay at the elegant Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti, a luxurious alpine retreat featuring holistic wellness treatments, a sprawling spa, and stunning mountain vistas.
Sardinia: Vermentino and Moscato
Sardinia’s rugged coastlines and crystal-clear waters provide a stunning backdrop for its unique wines. Vermentino, a crisp and aromatic white wine, thrives in the island’s Mediterranean climate, offering flavours of citrus and sea breeze. Moscato di Sardegna, a sweet and fragrant wine, is perfect for those with a sweeter palate.
Explore the island’s ancient nuraghe stone structures, relax on the stunning Costa Smeralda beaches, or take a boat trip to the Maddalena Archipelago for a taste of paradise. Adventurous visitors can hike the Gennargentu mountains or discover hidden coves along the coast.
Unwind at the exclusive Belmond Hotel Romazzino, an elegant retreat on the Costa Smeralda featuring private beach access, Mediterranean gardens, and a world-class spa offering treatments inspired by local traditions.
Puglia: Primitivo and Negroamaro
Bathed in Mediterranean sunshine and caressed by coastal breezes, Puglia is a land of bold, expressive wines. Primitivo, known for its rich, full-bodied character and notes of dark berries and spice, is a favourite among red wine lovers. Negroamaro, another local gem, offers deep, velvety flavours with hints of black cherry and tobacco, embodying the region’s rustic charm.
Wander through the whitewashed towns of Ostuni and Locorotondo, soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of the Salento peninsula, or explore the ancient trulli houses of Alberobello. Puglia’s slow pace invites travellers to savour every moment, from long lunches under olive trees to sunset aperitivos by the sea.
Stay at Borgo Egnazia, an exclusive resort inspired by traditional Apulian villages, offering luxurious suites, a world-class spa, and authentic local experiences. For a southern Salento experience head to Palazzo Donna Menga, now a part of Leading Hotels of the World. If you prefer city life, Lecce’s Patria Palace is a classic destination. For a boutique escape, Masseria Moroseta blends modern minimalism with rural charm, set amidst olive groves with breathtaking Adriatic views.
Planning Your Italian Wine Adventure
Whether you’re savouring a glass of Brunello in the rolling Tuscan hills or toasting with Prosecco in the Veneto sunshine, Italy’s wine regions promise unforgettable experiences. Follow the wines that intrigue you most—each sip is an invitation to discover the soul of Italy.
Ready to uncork your next adventure? Let us guide you to the world’s most captivating wine regions.