Italy is the second largest producer and the largest exporter of wine in the world. With the exception of the French, Italians drink more wine than any other nation. Italy has a 3,000 year old viticulture history. The Romans are responsible for refining the process of creating wine and introducing wine to most of Europe.

The climate of Italy makes it possible to grow wine producing grapes in almost every part of the country. Arguably the most famous region is Chianti in Tuscany. Red wines produced in Italy generally have flavors of black fruit and loamy soil and are known to have firm tannins and crisp acidity. Due to the tannins and acidity, Italian red wines are great choices for cellaring. Italian white wines are characterized by herbal flavors with high acidity. Some of my favorite Italian white wines are the sweet Moscato wine and Pinot Grigio.   

2003 La Colombaia Valpolicella Ripasso

Fruity with flavors of raisins, prunes...

Full Tasting Notes (05/28/06)

My Score: 79

2002 Nozzle Chianti Classico Riserva

Watery with little to no flavor...

Full Tasting Notes (05/26/06)

My Score: 76

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