Roll Wine & Spirits
Dreaming of La Dolce Vita
by Timothy Buzinski & Mei Ying So | Artisan Wine Shop
Mention great Italian wines and you’ll hear about reds like Chianti Classico, maybe a Barolo or Brunello. But it’s actually the whites that have us dreaming of being in Italy this summer. The fact is the rise in quality of Italian whites has been profound in recent years. The causes are varied: adaptation of modern technology and techniques, the resurgence of the small winegrower and a growing market for all things indigenous, authentic and unique. Derived, it seems, from every part of this very diverse country and its neighbors; the list of Italian wine varieties is long. Their very names are part of the charm: arneis, verdicchio, greco, falanghina, vermentino, cortese and so on. In general, we love the range of styles and flavors: citrus, melon, stonefruit, cool minerality, refreshing acidity, light to full body and sometimes distinct, sometimes elusive nuttiness.
The best way to acquaint yourself with these intriguing wines is, of course, to taste a few bottles. Try a mixed case of Italian whites over the next few weeks and explore different regions. Or if you find yourself perusing a restaurant wine list for a match with spicy crab pasta, look for one of these ancient varietal whites. But if you’re really intent on being a home-based traveler this summer, throw together this five-course tasting with friends. These are typical dishes made all over Italy, many with regional variations, best enjoyed with the local wine. By the third course, you’ll feel like you’re living la dolce vita.
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