France might claim the crown when it comes to winemaking, but as any grape lover will tell you, it’s the Italians who know how to really get the party started. Here, we chart the world of Italian wines from Aussie pinot grigio to orange wine from Northern Italy (plus, a truly drinkable can of beer thrown in for good measure).
This is an orange wine from the Emilia-Romagna region that shows wild, incredible perfume of quince, dried apple and sweet spice. Dives into the palate where it’s juicy, then rm with chalky tannins. Matches well with chargrilled sardines.
Moscato d’Asti sits at 5.5% alcohol, is gloriously perfumed, lightly fizzy, frisky and sweet. The fresh, vibrant feel of these wines make them great drinking any time, but they work best after a meal, served up next to beautiful, seasonal fruit.
Rest assured the contents of the bottle are very delicious. Vibrant and fruity, it stains the palate with dark fruit finishing with spice. Perfect with parmigiana.
Pinot grigio is perhaps Italy’s most well-known white, and typically is a light, crisp, grassy refresher. Winemaker Kathleen Quealy has worked with grigio in Australia for longer than most, and this is an absolute thirst-slaker.
Prosecco grown and made in Australia is gaining ground on those produced in the homelands, like this perky, fruity, fi zzy version. Strident Italophiles take note. It’s great in a spritz with a splash of Campari and a wedge of orange.
Some like calling Peroni beer ‘the other Italian mineral water’, such is its light flavour and ultra refreshing feel. It’s neutral in aromas, faintly malty to taste, vibrant with gassy bubbles, and just so damn drinkable. For enjoying in the sun.
