Classic Italian Whites

Italy is a mosaic when it comes to wines. Literally hundreds of grape varieties, wine styles, appellations, and winemaking traditions come together for what is perhaps the world’s magnum opus when it comes to wine. In this case, we have pieced together six of Italy’s most iconic white wines and, although the wines have been made here for decades, that by no means points to a boring profile. Each of these wines is one small producer’s interpretation of their land, climate, grape varieties, and beautiful wine-making history. Famed for their ability to be enjoyed with food, keep an eye out for our suggested pairings to help you along your journey of Italian discovery!

Verdicchio, with all its coastal, salty charm, is produced organically by the family-run Tenute di Tavignano. The Marche region’s most famous export, this crisp, citrussy white pairs perfectly with all shellfish. Travelling further south we enter Abruzzo, where Trebbiano and all its peach attraction reigns strong. From Caldora, a quality driven cooperative, we have a Trebbiano d’Abruzzo whose pear notes and medium body are balanced perfectly by a zippy acidity. To the west, in Campania, we find the Lapilli winery who are doing amazing things with local grape varieties. In a region that is dominated by premium white wines, they produce a Greco di Tufo that delivers honeyed nectarine character alongside a steely minerality and citrussy freshness that are difficult to come by at this price point!

In the northern corner of Piedmont, we meet Francesco Rinaldi, a tiny producer whose name is more appreciated for red wines than whites, but their Gavi is ripe, round, floral and silky, showcasing why Gavi can be much better than that watery stuff you find in the pub! Further east in Veneto, Soave is making a serious comeback and Monte Tondo is leading the charge. The family behind this historical estate have crafted a white that is as mineral as it is golden, with bundles of attractive green and yellow fruit and super moreish character. Finally, in the northern reaches of Alto-Adige, an Alpine Pinot Bianco with so much character. From volcanic soils on the slopes of the Adige River, Cantina Andriano produce this mouth-watering white the offers white peach, orchard fruits and mineral quality that is quite frankly magical.