Italy is known for its world-renowned wines, from the iconic reds of Tuscany and Piedmont to the sparkling wines of Franciacorta and Trento. But beyond these well-known regions, Italy is home to a wealth of lesser-known wine regions that produce unique and high-quality wines. In this article, we’ll explore some of the hidden gems of Italian wine, uncovering the rich history and diverse styles of these lesser-known regions.
Puglia: Located in the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is a region that is often overlooked by wine lovers. However, it is home to some of Italy’s finest wine-producing areas, including Salento, the home of Primitivo, and Castel del Monte, the home of Nero di Troia. The region is known for its full-bodied red wines made from grape varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Uva di Troia.
Sicily: Sicily is Italy’s largest island, located off the coast of the mainland. The island has a long and rich history of winemaking, and it is home to a diverse range of grape varieties and styles of wine. The Etna DOC, located on the slopes of Mount Etna, is particularly well-known for its red wines made from the Nerello Mascalese grape, while the Marsala DOC is famous for its fortified wines.
Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Located in the northeast of Italy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a region that is known for its white wines made from grape varieties such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Ribolla Gialla. The region is also home to some excellent red wines made from grape varieties such as Refosco and Schioppettino.
Sardinia: Sardinia is an island located off the west coast of Italy, and it is known for its unique wines made from indigenous grape varieties such as Vermentino and Cannonau. The island’s warm and sunny climate makes it ideal for growing grapes, and the wines of Sardinia are known for their rich and full-bodied flavors.
These are just a few examples of the many hidden gems of Italian wine. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast looking to explore new regions and grape varieties, or simply looking to try something new and different, the lesser-known wine regions of Italy are well worth discovering.
