Italian Wine

The Romans improved on many Greek wine-making traditions, such as updating grape presses, using props and trellises in the fields, aging wines in wooden casks, and using sealed containers with corks to store and present the wine. They also understood which grapes were best suited to certain soils and climates, and attempted to plant accordingly. But they also used additives to “improve” them that would be frowned upon now, such as mixing in honey, sugar, salt water and even herbs and spices. One also has to consider that ancient Roman wines were far more alcoholic than modern table wine. From what we know about their partying habits, this should come as a surprise to know one. 

 

Modern day Italian wines now run the gamut from the apex of global prestige to cheap bulk wine that’s maybe only steps away from what the Romans consumed. But they were on to something with the regional plantings. There are now twenty different regions, each with their own unique varietals and styles. Consider Nebbiolo, Barbera and Arneis of Piedmont. Sangiovese and Vernaccia of Tuscany. Garganega, Corvino, Molinara and Rondinella of the Veneto. Aglianico and Falanghina of Campania. Lagrein of Alto Adige. Nero d’Avola of Sicily. Lacrima in the Marche. Lambrusco in Emilia Romagna. And countless other grapes and their specific territories. Within Italy, perhaps more than any other powerhouse wine-producing country, each varietal, with few exception, has its own region, its sense of place. Home. Familia. 

 

In the 20th century, much like the rest of Europe, regions were attributed specific label designations. The Italian system is as follows:

 

*VDT = vino de tavola 

*IGT = Indicazione Geografica Typica (wine from a specific area, but may include a blend of grapes from different regions)

*DOC = Denominazione di Origine Controllata (wines from a defined region; requires more stringent labeling standards)

*DOCG = Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (a region of superior ranking; wines must pass very strict standards to be labeled as such) ~Amanda Schuster