Italian red wines are available in a vast array of varieties.
No matter what's on the menu, you can find an Italian red wine that will pair perfectly with the chef's creations. If you are having a large, robust meal you can opt for a full-bodied Italian red wine. If you are enjoying a lighter meal, try a light- or medium-bodied red wine.
Amarone
A dry, full-bodied wine, Amarone is made from partially dried Corvina grapes. It has a slight fruitiness and pairs well with rich foods and full-flavored cheeses.
Barbaresco
Barbaresco is a taut perfect for those put off by heavier red wines. It is made from Nebbiolo grapes, which are aged for one year in wood and are best when consumed between eight and 15 years of age.
Barbera
Barbera is available in many varieties. It can be dry or light- or medium-bodied with a fruity berry flavor and a lot of acidity and can pair with a broad variety of foods.
Barolo
Barolo is a dry, full-bodied wine. It has many different scents and flavors, ranging from herbs to berries, and is usually a deep red color. Barolo, like Barbaresco, is made from Nebbiolo grapes.
Brunello di Montalcino
A more concentrated, intense red wine, Brunello di Montalcino is made with the classic Italian Sangiovese grape. It is typically aged in oak and best consumed when it reaches 15 years of age.
Chianti
Chianti is a medium-bodied, dry wine made from Sangiovese or Canaiolo grapes. Chiantis typically feature flavors of cherry, plum, spice, vanilla, coffee, almonds and tobacco and tend to appeal to those who like dry yet fruity wines that are not overly heavy.
Lambrusco
Lambrusco is a light wine that is commonly sweet and fruity, though it is made in many varieties, including dry and sparkling. Lambrusco is the perfect accompaniment to a light salad or summer picnic meal.
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a medium-bodied, flavorful wine made from Montepulciano grapes. It is popular for its easy taste and affordability.
Salice Salentino
Salice Salentino wines are dry, full-bodied and redolent of plums. These wines, in red and rosé versions, are made primarily from Negro Amaro, as well as Malvasia Nera di Brindisi and Malvasia Nera di Lecce. The wines take their name from the small community north of Lecce where they are produced.
Valpolicella
Made from Corvina, Molinara and Rondinella grapes, Valpolicella wine is medium-bodied, dry and has a strong cherry flavor.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is similar to Chianti, though a bit fuller-bodied. It is still considered a medium-bodied wine and is dry, with a typically cherry flavor.
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