Sangiovese: The Soul of Tuscany
The undisputed king of Tuscany, Sangiovese is the emblematic grape variety of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Characterized by its aromas of cherry, spices, and earthy notes, it offers structured wines with well-present tannins. Depending on the terroir, it can express finesse or power, always with beautiful acidity that gives it remarkable aging potential.
Nebbiolo: The Jewel of Piedmont
The noble grape of Piedmont, Nebbiolo gives birth to the legendary Barolo and Barbaresco. These powerful and complex wines are distinguished by their aromas of rose, tar, red fruits, and their impressive tannic structure. Requiring long maturation, great Nebbiolo wines develop incomparable aromatic finesse and are among Italy's wines with the highest aging potential.
Primitivo and Nero d'Avola: The Warmth of the South
Primitivo, mainly cultivated in Puglia, produces generous wines, rich in alcohol and fruit, with notes of plum, black cherry, and spices. A cousin of California's Zinfandel, it expresses all the warmth and generosity of southern Italy.
Nero d'Avola, Sicily's star, produces full-bodied wines with aromas of black fruits, pepper, and chocolate. Its balanced structure and ability to maintain freshness in hot climates make it a perfect ambassador of Mediterranean wines.
Barbera: Accessible Elegance
Widely planted in Piedmont, Barbera produces wines with beautiful acidity, with aromas of cherry, plum, and wild berries. Less austere than Nebbiolo in its youth, it offers accessible and delicious wines, particularly in the Barbera d'Asti and Barbera d'Alba appellations, where it can also demonstrate surprising aging capacity.
Montepulciano: The Generosity of Abruzzo
Not to be confused with the Tuscan town of the same name, Montepulciano is the flagship grape variety of Abruzzo. It gives round, supple, and generous wines with aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, and sweet spices. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo offers excellent value for money, with wines for immediate pleasure but also some impressive aging cuvées.
Aglianico: The Barolo of the South
Considered one of the greatest grape varieties of southern Italy, Aglianico excels in Campania and Basilicata. It produces powerful and structured wines with complex aromas of black fruits, tobacco, spices, and volcanic minerality. Taurasi from Campania and Aglianico del Vulture from Basilicata are long-aging wines that rival the best Italian crus.
Italian Reds: A World to Explore
The diversity of Italian red grape varieties constitutes an invaluable treasure for wine lovers. From Nebbiolo's refined elegance to Primitivo's generous warmth, through Sangiovese's versatility, these wines tell the story of a country with a thousand facets. Whether from centuries-old traditions or more modern practices, Italian red wines continue to seduce with their authentic character and their extraordinary ability to accompany the table. Discover our selection for a sensory journey to the heart of Italian viticulture!
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