Buy Italian red wine – a pleasure in every respect
Italy – a wine country with a global reputation
For centuries, Italy has been one of the most important wine-producing nations in the world and is one of the largest wine-growing countries. With over 700,000 hectares of vineyards, the country offers an impressive variety of grape varieties, styles and regional specialities. The varied topography, from the Alpine north to the Mediterranean south, provides ideal conditions for viticulture and a diversity of red wines that is second to none.
From the Alps to the Mediterranean
Each of Italy's numerous wine regions produces its own unique wines. The climatic range from cool Piedmont to sun-drenched Sicily allows for enormous diversity in terms of varieties, flavours and characters of the wines. Particularly in the hilly areas, optimal exposure and poor soils produce high-quality red wines with pronounced structure and finesse.
Tuscany – the heart of Italian red wine culture
Few regions are as synonymous with classic Italian red wine as Tuscany. It is famous for Chianti, but Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano also come from this region. The Sangiovese grapes are characteristic, a variety that brings a fresh acidity, delicate fruit aromas and a beautiful spiciness to the glass. In combination with the Tuscan climate, long-lasting, elegant wines are produced.
The north – Piedmont and Veneto
In Piedmont, in the very northwest of the country, the demanding Nebbiolo grape thrives, from which Barolo and Barbaresco are made. These wines are characterised by a complex interplay of aromas, high tannin content and excellent ageing potential. Further east in Veneto, on the other hand, the Amarone della Valpolicella impresses with its special production method – the grapes are dried before fermentation, which gives the wine body, depth and sweetness without making it heavy.
The south – red wines with a Mediterranean character
In southern Italy – from Puglia to Campania and Basilicata – you will find powerful red wines with a rich fruitiness, a pleasant warmth and a touch of the exotic. The Primitivo, Aglianico and Nero d'Avola grape varieties in particular characterise the image of this region. Thanks to plenty of sunshine and little rain, wines with a high concentration and pronounced body are produced here – ideal for connoisseurs who prefer powerful wines.
Island wines – Sicily and Sardinia
In recent decades, Sicily has developed from a mass wine producer to a quality region. The indigenous varieties such as Nero d'Avola or Nerello Mascalese produce exciting wines, some of which have a mineral character. In particular, wines from the slopes of Mount Etna are now considered an insider tip. Sardinia, on the other hand, boasts Cannonau – a variety of Grenache – which is harvested when fully ripe on the island and produces warm, round red wines.
International grape varieties with an Italian touch
Alongside native grapes, international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc have found their place in Italy. In the so-called ‘Super Tuscans’, these varieties are blended with Sangiovese to create elegant, full-bodied wines that are very popular internationally.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from Italy
These two grape varieties originate from Bordeaux, but are now successfully cultivated throughout Italy. In Tuscany, Veneto, Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, they are used to produce red wines with structure and elegance. When blended with Italian varieties, they add depth and density, resulting in wines with great ageing potential.
Aglianico – the jewel of the south
The Aglianico grape variety produces deep, dark, powerful wines that are characterised by their distinctive tannin structure and ageing potential. In Campania, great DOCG wines such as Taurasi are made from it, which has long since achieved cult status among connoisseurs.
Barbera – fruity and uncomplicated
Barbera, one of the many grape varieties grown in Piedmont, produces uncomplicated, fruit-forward red wines that impress with their lively acidity and low tannin content. Ideal for anyone looking for a juicy companion for everyday cooking.
Montepulciano – a grape variety at risk of confusion
Malvasia is a versatile red wine grape variety that is well known in Italy for cuvées and specific wine types. It should not be confused with the town of Montepulciano in Tuscany, but with the grape variety of the same name, which is particularly common in the Marche and Abruzzo regions. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a classic that offers excellent value for money.
DOC, DOCG and IGT – Italian designations of origin
Italy uses a three-tiered system for classifying the quality of wines. DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) denotes the highest level, followed by DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica). These classifications provide information about the origin, grape varieties and production rules.
Red wine in 75 cl bottles – the standard
The classic bottle size for Italian red wines is 75 cl. Many wines are also available in half or magnum bottles, but the 75 cl bottle remains the most common form for private connoisseurs as well as for the upscale gastronomy sector.
Red wines from Italy
Italy is known for its impressive variety of red wines, which vary from region to region and each have their own characteristic features. Some of the most famous and appreciated red wines from Italy are Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino and Amarone. These wines are characterised by intense aromas of dark berries, spices and chocolate and are often of the highest quality.
The Barolo, also known as the ‘king of wines’, comes from Piedmont and is made from the Nebbiolo grape. It impresses with its complex structure and enormous storage potential. Brunello di Montalcino, from Tuscany, is made from Sangiovese grapes and impresses with its elegance and depth. Amarone della Valpolicella, from Veneto, is known for its special production method, in which the grapes are dried before fermentation, giving the wine an incomparable richness and depth.
These characterful reds are the result of a harmonious combination of grape variety, region and traditional viticulture. They reflect the diversity and rich heritage of Italian viticulture and are highly esteemed internationally.
Enjoyment with structure – discover Italian red wines
Whether soft and fruity or tannic and complex – Italy's red wine varieties offer a wide range of styles. Wines with structure, i.e. with a clear tannin and acid structure, are particularly exciting and are ideal as a food companion.
Combining food and wine – in harmony with food
Pasta and pizza
A fruity Chianti or a Barbera goes perfectly with a pizza margherita or pasta with tomato sauce. The fruit acidity of the wine complements the slight acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Meat dishes
Strong wines such as Barolo, Brunello or Amarone are the best choice for beef, lamb or game. Their tannins and alcohol content harmonise perfectly with roasted meat or savoury sauces.
Cheese
Pecorino, Parmigiano or a mature Taleggio call for strong wines. Nero d'Avola or Sagrantino from Umbria show off their full potential here.
Antipasti
Lighter red wines such as a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo or a Rosso di Montalcino go well with ham, salami and pickled vegetables.
Fish? Sometimes yes!
A light, well-chilled Brachetto or a fresh sparkling wine made with red grapes such as Lambrusco can be an unusually good match for grilled tuna or spicy cod.
Italian brands with a reputation
Names like Allegrini, Antinori or Gaja stand for the highest quality and long-standing tradition in Italian viticulture. These producers set standards – not only in Italy, but worldwide.
Award-winning red wines
Many Italian red wines receive top ratings year after year from international wine critics such as James Suckling or Luca Maroni. Look out for these when shopping if you are looking for something special.
One country, a thousand tastes
Italy is characterised by the diversity of its wine-growing regions. Whether velvety smooth, elegant or robust and expressive – the country offers red wines for every occasion and every taste. There is something for every budget, too.
Italian wines: a pleasure for every occasion
Italian wines are a real treat for any occasion. Whether it's a festive occasion or a cosy evening at home, the variety of Italian wines offers something for every taste and every occasion. From the full-bodied reds of Piedmont to the elegant whites of Tuscany, the choice is almost endless.
The reds from Piedmont, such as Barolo and Barbera, are known for their depth and complexity. They go exceptionally well with rich meat dishes and mature cheeses. The whites from Tuscany, such as Vernaccia di San Gimignano, impress with their freshness and elegance and are ideal companions to fish dishes and light appetisers.
Italian wines are not only of high quality, but also versatile. They are perfect as an accompaniment to a good meal or simply to enjoy in good company. Thanks to the wide variety of styles and flavours, every wine lover will find their personal favourite. The high quality and international reputation of Italian wines make them an excellent choice for any occasion.
Convenient and enjoyable online shopping
When you order red wine online, you can take your time to compare, discover top sellers and try new, unknown wines. In the online shop, you will find varieties from all regions – from Piedmont to Basilicata, from Veneto to Puglia and Lazio.
FAQ about Italian red wine
Which Italian red wines are considered to be of particularly high quality?
Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, Amarone and Super Tuscans are among the best-known and highest-quality red wines from Italy.
What is the difference between Chianti and Brunello?
Both come from Tuscany and are made from Sangiovese grapes. Brunello is stronger, matures longer and is considered more noble. Chianti is fresher, lighter and ready to drink earlier.
Which grape variety is typical of southern Italy?
Nero d'Avola and Aglianico are two particularly important red wine varieties from southern Italy that produce characterful and full-bodied wines.
How long can Italian red wine be stored?
That depends on the wine. Simple wines are better drunk young. High-quality wines such as Barolo or Brunello can be stored for 10–20 years or more.
Which Italian red wine goes well with pizza?
A fruity Chianti or a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo are classic companions for pizza – especially for variants with tomato sauce and cheese.