Italy
While the world is abuzz with talk of 'Super Tuscans', Italy’s rich winemaking history harks back to the Roman Empire and spans 20 wine regions, each with its own climate, topography and soil. Each region also has its own distinctive winemaking traditions and styles – creating alchemy from its hundreds of grape varietals. PMFW focuses on the alpine area of Piemont (Piedmont) and Toscana (Tuscany).
Piedmont – in the Alpine foothills – produces prestigious red wines – like Barbaresco and Barolo - made from the powerful, high-acidity, well-structured noble varietal Nebbiolo (perfect for ageing) and the lesser known Dolcetto, and Barbera grapes. With its cooler, continental climate and soil diversity, the area’s rolling hills are planted with vineyards at elevations up to 500 metres. A long growing season results in complex, full-bodied wines. Not to mention sought after! Look out for superb winemakers Aldo Conterno and Michele Chiarlo
At Italy’s centre, Tuscany is famous for its Chianti made from Sangiovese grapes (juicy and savoury medium-bodied red fruit and earthy profile). Or try age-worthy Brunello di Montalcino (fleshy, black-fruited, balanced with high acidity), Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (mineral and herbaceous), and bold Super Tuscan blends of local and international grape varieties (cab sauv/merlot blends and whites such as Chardonnay). Characterised by a Mediterranean climate’s hot summers and mild winters, Tuscany’s hilly terrain offers wine growers good drainage and soil variation. Look out for wines from Ornellaia, Tenuta Luce, Massetino, cult winemaker Bibi Graetz and Sassicaia.
Northeastern Veneto creates famous sparkling wines, such as Prosecco, as well as Soave, Amarone, and Valpolicella which PMFW stocks periodically. Vineyards are planted at elevations between sea level and 500 metres and enjoy hot summers and cold winters. Many vines are planted on mineral-rich alluvial soils.
We simplify Italian wine choices for you by carefully selecting both drinking and age-worthy wines, at all price levels. Our top wines generally have reviews attached to assist your selection. Peruse our landed Italian wine selection which showcases the dedication of our exciting producers, at competitive pricing.
