Italy
Italy's wine production is incredibly diverse, thanks to the richness and unique features of its various regions. Each area boasts a wine heritage that tells the story of its traditions, culture, and landscape.
Tuscany
Tuscany is one of the most important wine regions in the world and one of the most representative areas for wine production in Italy. Vineyards are primarily distributed across hilly territories, which are particularly suited to viticulture due to their climatic and geological conditions, with a smaller portion located in the plains.
The largest wine-producing areas in Tuscany are Chianti, Maremma, and the province of Siena, alongside many other smaller areas with a strong winemaking vocation. The constant drive for specialization highlights the importance of viticulture in Tuscany, which ranks among the top regions in Italy for the production of DOC wines.
Abruzzo
The history of wine in Abruzzo dates back centuries. From Ovid to Polybius, numerous historical sources attest to a well-established winemaking tradition in the region since ancient times. Until the Renaissance, viticulture in Abruzzo was concentrated primarily in the province of L’Aquila. However, it underwent a rapid transformation, especially following Italian unification.
Since the mid-20th century, wine production in Abruzzo has become increasingly specialized, focusing on areas with a strong winemaking vocation. Thanks to good ventilation and significant temperature variations between day and night, the region provides an ideal microclimate for cultivating high-quality grapes.
Calabria
Viticulture in Calabria has deep roots, dating back to the era of Magna Graecia. It was the Greeks who first promoted vine cultivation in this rich and diverse region, recognizing its fertile lands as ideal for winemaking.
Calabria's geographical features, with its extensive coastline and predominantly mountainous terrain, have led to the concentration of vineyards in three main areas: the Pollino Massif, the Tyrrhenian and Ionian foothills of the Sila, and the Aspromonte region.
Friuli Venezia Giulia
Despite its relatively small size, Friuli Venezia Giulia holds a leading role in Italian winemaking. This is thanks to the dedication of both small and large producers who have skillfully combined ancient traditions with modern technologies, always striving for the highest quality.
The region’s diverse landscape—ranging from high plains to lands overlooking the Venetian lagoon, from rolling hills to towering mountains—contributes to the production of exceptional wines with distinct characteristics.
Lazio
Viticulture in Lazio is primarily concentrated in the hilly areas, with two main production zones: the Castelli Romani, a series of hills rising southeast of Rome, and the Viterbo area, historically known as "Tuscía." A common characteristic of both areas is their highly volcanic soil.
The majority of Lazio's wine production consists of white wines, typically still wines with good body and pleasantly fruity aromas. These are straightforward, approachable wines that pair perfectly with the region's traditional cuisine.
Lombardy
Limited in quantity but rich in diversity of terroirs and wines—this is what defines Lombardy’s winemaking reality. The region boasts highly varied productions thanks to its remarkable environmental diversity, ranging from mountains to hills, plains, and lakes.
From the great reds of Valtellina to the sparkling wines of Franciacorta and Oltrepò, Lombardy is home to nationally renowned denominations as well as smaller, lesser-known ones. This region is a meeting point for both national and international grape varieties, resulting in wines that are more or less tied to the local terroir but always united by their exceptional quality.
Veneto
Veneto is a land of ancient winemaking traditions and currently holds the top spot in Italy for the production of DOC wines. The region’s wine production stands out not only for its vast and diverse range of vineyards and wines—from whites to reds, sparkling wines to dessert wines—but also for its strong commitment to quality.
Much of Veneto, thanks to its climatic and morphological characteristics, is ideal for cultivating excellent grapes. Vineyards are located both in the plains, rich in waterways, and in the hilly areas, which enjoy mild climates and fertile soils.
Marche
Winemaking in Marche began with the arrival of the Syracusan Greeks and flourished under the Romans, who spread the fame of Piceno wine throughout the empire. A land of excellence, this region is among Italy’s most prominent wine-producing areas, expressed through a wide variety of wine styles.
The influence of the Adriatic Sea and the natural barriers formed by the mountains create rare and unique microclimates, giving rise to distinctive wines with unmistakable aromas. Most of these wines are produced by small wineries where winemaking is a tradition passed down through generations.
Piedmont
A land of winemaking tradition since ancient times, Piedmont produces exceptional wines on its hills and in its Alpine and pre-Alpine zones. These areas, distinguished by their diverse geographical and climatic characteristics, emphasize manual labor and low yields per hectare to enhance the quality of the wines produced here.
From refined and sumptuous reds to round and aromatic whites, and even inviting dessert wines, Piedmont’s diverse winemaking heritage makes it a region of extraordinary excellence, celebrated both nationally and internationally.
Apulia
A flourishing and fertile land devoted to viticulture since the time of ancient Greek civilization, Apulia boasts a long winemaking tradition, thanks to a climate particularly suited to grape cultivation. The region’s three main wine-producing areas are the province of Foggia, the Terra di Bari, and Salento.
Apulia has always been one of Italy's leading wine producers in terms of quantity. In recent years, increasing emphasis has been placed on quality. As a result, and thanks to its immense winemaking potential, Apulian wines have gained fame not only nationally but also internationally.
Sardinia
Sardinia and winemaking—a millennia-old tradition rooted in the distant era of the Nuragic civilization and reflected in the many excellences produced in this land. The climate, soil, and grape varieties of this region give rise to high-quality wines, some robust and vigorous, others elegant and refined, depending on the environment in which they are produced.
Vineyards are an integral part of Sardinia’s landscape, from the fertile plains near the sea to the hills and inland areas, where winemaking remains tied to ancient traditions. This is why Sardinian wines are always a true expression of the land from which they come.
Sicily
Thanks to its climate, mild temperatures, hilly terrain, gentle sea breezes, and abundant sunshine, Sicily offers the perfect environment for vine cultivation and winemaking. Sicilian vineyards are divided into three major districts: the western Trapani area, home to the famous Marsala wines; the northeastern zone, known for Etna wines; and the southern region, producing wines from Ragusa.
With its wines, Sicily showcases a centuries-old winemaking vocation that dates back to the time of the Greeks. Today, Sicilian winemaking is undergoing a significant transformation, unlocking the island’s still largely untapped potential.
Trentino
Trentino is a region where different climates and soils come together to create exceptional wines. From Lake Garda to the terraces of the Cembra Valley, Trentino winemakers produce unique wines with great care.
The region is home to three native grape varieties: Nosiola, used to produce an excellent Vin Santo; Marzemino from Vallagarina; and Teroldego from the Rotaliana Plain. Trentino also excels with international varieties like Müller-Thurgau, which yields outstanding white wines, as well as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, used to produce exceptional Trento Doc sparkling wines.
South Tyrol
Wine and tradition are inseparable in South Tyrol. Winemaking in this region has ancient origins, and today’s diverse wine production is supported by centuries-old traditions.
This region was renowned for its wines even in Roman times, and winemaking still plays a primary role in the local economy. This is largely due to the region’s unique environmental conditions, which prioritize quality above all else, with a variety of grape varieties rarely found in other areas.
Umbria
Umbria, a small region often referred to as the green heart of Italy, is characterized by limited wine production in terms of quantity but exceptional quality. Here, ancient farming traditions are still alive, giving rise to wines deeply connected to centuries-old traditions and the local terroir.
Numerous archaeological findings show that the Etruscans and Umbrians were already engaged in viticulture even before the arrival of the Romans. This long winemaking history is closely tied to the region’s climatic and geographical features, with its hills providing an ideal landscape for vine cultivation.
Basilicata
Basilicata has had a millennia-old vocation for viticulture and winemaking, with a history dating back to the ancient Enotri and Lucanians. This long tradition today blends with culture and innovation, fully expressing the potential of a terroir capable of producing outstanding wines.
Although the region's wine production is limited in terms of quantity, it offers fascinating prospects both for its native grape varieties and for the high quality of its wines. The three main wine-producing areas in Basilicata are the Vulture area, the Matera region, and the upper Val d'Agri.
Campania
Campania is a region with an ancient winemaking tradition, one of the first in the world to see the settlement, cultivation, and study of vines, as well as the production of wine. The spread of viticulture in the area dates back to pre-Roman times, facilitated by a particularly favorable climate and the unique nature of the soil.
The region boasts a rich heritage of high-quality grape varieties, which give rise to a wide array of wines—both red and white—including many renowned and highly appreciated labels, not only in Italy but also abroad.
Emilia Romagna
The Emilia Romagna region is divided in two by the historic Via Emilia, which runs through it from one end to the other: on one side, the Apennines with their gentle hills, ideally suited for viticulture; on the other, the plains that extend toward the Po River and the Adriatic coast.
Along the Via Emilia, four main wine-producing areas can be found: the Colli Piacentini and Colli Parmensi, where Bonarda and Barbera are predominant; the lands of Lambrusco, stretching from the hills to the banks of the Po between Reggio Emilia and Modena; the Colli Bolognesi and the lower Reno Valley, known for their white wines; and finally, Romagna, where Sangiovese, Albana, and Trebbiano take center stage.
Aosta Valley
The Aosta Valley boasts a winemaking tradition that dates back thousands of years, thanks to its fertile and diverse terrain. The richness of this region lies in its native grape varieties, grown exclusively in these lands, and in the hands of expert viticulturists and winemakers who cultivate them with passion and dedication.
From the slopes of Mont Blanc to the vineyards of Monte Rosa, from Gran Paradiso to the Matterhorn, the Aosta Valley is characterized by small plots of vineyards interspersed among the Alpine rocks. Each wine produced here encapsulates the essence and tradition of the region, reflecting its colours, aromas, and flavours.
Liguria
Liguria is one of Italy’s smallest wine-producing regions. Its narrow, mountainous terrain, wedged between the Alps, the Apennines, and the sea, makes viticulture particularly challenging. However, the mild climate of the inland hills provides highly favorable conditions for vine cultivation.
For this reason, Liguria has developed a strong winemaking tradition, further enhanced by its proximity to the sea, which not only influences the character of its wines but has also historically facilitated their trade and distribution.
Molise
Molise is a small region with a uniquely diverse landscape. Winemaking, practiced both in hilly and mountainous areas, has ancient origins dating back to the Samnites, though it was the Romans who later expanded vine cultivation across broader territories.
Pristine landscapes, great potential, and a tradition handed down from father to son—these are the three strengths of Molise’s winemaking. Over time, the region has carved out its rightful place in Italy’s wine scene, fully expressing its identity and uniqueness.