When it comes to the wine regions of northern Italy, there are definitely some heavyweights that immediately come to mind. Barolo, Barbaresco, Prosecco, and Amarone are all names that most wine enthusiasts are familiar with. These wines have gained international acclaim and have become synonymous with Italian wine excellence. However, if you dig a little deeper, you'll find that there are other truly exciting wines to discover in this diverse and captivating region.
One such wine that deserves recognition is Lambrusco. Now, before you dismiss it as a sweet, fizzy, mass-produced wine, let me assure you that there is so much more to Lambrusco than meets the eye. I had the pleasure of tasting some truly outstanding examples of Lambrusco during a visit to Emilia-Romagna, where the wine originates. It was fascinating to learn about the different grape varieties used to make Lambrusco and the various styles produced, ranging from dry and refreshing to rich and complex. The best Lambruscos I tried had vibrant acidity, bright fruit flavors, and a surprising depth that paired wonderfully with the local cuisine.
Another hidden gem in northern Italy is Franciacorta. Often referred to as the “Champagne of Italy,” Franciacorta is a sparkling wine made in the traditional method, just like its French counterpart. During my visit to the Franciacorta region in Lombardy, I was blown away by the quality and elegance of these sparkling wines. Made predominantly from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Franciacorta offers a wide range of styles, from crisp and citrusy to creamy and toasty. The attention to detail and precision in the production process is evident in every sip, making Franciacorta a real contender in the world of sparkling wine.
Moving on to the red wines, there are a few lesser-known regions that are definitely worth exploring. For instance, the wines of the Alto Adige region in the far north of Italy are often overlooked but shouldn't be underestimated. Nestled in the stunning Dolomite Mountains, this region produces some exceptional cool-climate reds. The Lagrein grape, indigenous to Alto Adige, produces deeply colored wines with intense aromas of dark berries and a distinct earthiness. The Schiava grape, on the other hand, creates lighter-bodied and aromatic reds that are perfect for enjoying slightly chilled during the summer months.
Let's not forget about the white wines of northern Italy. While Pinot Grigio may be the most well-known white wine from this region, there are other varieties that deserve attention. For example, the Gavi DOCG in Piedmont is known for its crisp and mineral-driven white wines made from the Cortese grape. These wines have a lovely balance of fruitiness and acidity, making them a great match for seafood dishes. In Friuli-Venezia Giulia, you'll find the aromatic and vibrant wines made from the Friulano grape. These wines often exhibit notes of white flowers, ripe peaches, and a zesty acidity that makes them incredibly refreshing.
While the giants of northern Italian wine like Barolo, Barbaresco, Prosecco, and Amarone rightfully take the spotlight, there are plenty of other exciting wines to discover in this region. From the surprising depth of Lambrusco to the elegance of Franciacorta, the richness of Alto Adige reds, and the vibrancy of lesser-known white varieties, northern Italy offers a plethora of wine options that are just waiting to be explored. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for a bottle of Barolo, consider venturing off the beaten path and discovering the hidden treasures that northern Italy has to offer.