How to Buy Italian Wine

The Italians have made wine for hundreds of years, but determining which wine is right for you can be challenging. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on wine you don't enjoy, consider a few options when purchasing Italian vino. Research the wine regions and the grapes produced there, characteristics of common Italian grapes and the Italian wine classification system. These factors play an intricate role in purchasing Italian wine favorites. Here are a few helpful guidelines.

Instructions

1. Understand Italian wine regions. There are 20 Italian wine regions based on the 20 political regions of Italy. Within each of these regions, there are several sub-regions that further break down the classification of wine. A few well-known Italian wine regions include Tuscany, Piedmont and Veneto.

2. Learn about common Italian grapes and their characteristics. There are hundreds of Italian grapes. However, it is only essential to know the most popular and commonly used grapes. Commonly used Italian wine grapes include Barbera, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Pinot Bianco, Corvina and Arneis. For example, Sangiovese is Italy's most widely planted grape. It typically displays aromas of blueberry, strawberry, violets and plums. Characteristically, Sangiovese showcases moderate to high natural acidity and medium body.

3. Note the Italian wine classification system. The most commonly used classification is "vino da tavola" or table wine. Wines in this category are made with the fewest restrictions on the winemaker. The winemakers don't have to specify the variety, vintage or origin on wine labels. Thinking of the classification system as a pyramid, the "indicazione geografica tipica" or typical geographic indications, appears as the second level of classification from the bottom. These wines use approved varieties and are produced in specific areas. However, there are few regulations on color, flavor or yield. The "denominazione di origine controllata" or controlled denomination of origin is considered the next level. These wines are produced in certain areas and controls are placed on grape varieties, color, aroma, flavor, alcohol content, acidity and aging period. The premier classification is "denominazione di origine controllata e garantita." These wines follow the controlled denomination of origin standards, but produce lower yields. The bottles have a numbered government seal.

4. Know helpful Italian descriptions. Understanding wine labels helps individuals decide whether to purchase a bottle of wine. A few helpful translations include: "superiore," which means the wine is produced with high quality requirements. "Riserva" means reserve and longer than usual aging. "Vecchio" means old, while "vendemmia" and "annata" mean vintage. "Invecchiato" means aged, "imbottigliato" means bottled, "secco" means dry and "dolce" means sweet.

5. Get suggestions. Before purchasing large quantities of Italian wine, attend wine tastings, read reviews and have a glass at a restaurant to taste different varieties. When purchasing wine look for regions and varieties that you enjoy and don't be afraid to try something new.

6. Purchase Italian wine. Many Italian wines can be found at local wine stores, liquor stores and online. See the Resources section for a link. However, if an individual is looking for a specific bottle, it may be necessary to order directly from the winery or contact a local distributor for the closest retail location.

Resources

• Italian wine regions
• Source for purchasing wine online