Spring is a wonderful time to explore the lighter and more refreshing red wines Italy has to offer. Here are five top red Italian wines that are well-suited for spring:
Chianti Classico:
Grapes: Primarily Sangiovese with other local varieties.
Region: Chianti Classico, Tuscany.
Tasting Notes: Chianti Classico wines are known for their bright acidity, cherry fruit flavors, and floral notes. These wines are versatile and pair well with a variety of spring dishes, from grilled vegetables to lighter meats. This Chianti Classico is in my cart and I have the perfect meal planned for it! My family loves to make kielbasa pasta on weeknights because it saves so well for leftovers.
Barbera d'Asti:
Grapes: Barbera.
Region: Asti, Piedmont.
Tasting Notes: Barbera d'Asti wines are characterized by their vibrant acidity and red berry fruit flavors. They often have a smooth and approachable profile, making them a delightful choice for spring. Enjoy this wine with classic Italian dishes or a simple pasta primavera. This Barbera is already on its way to my door and I can't wait to pair it with my dinner. It really elevates Wednesday night Spaghetti and Meatballs
Valpolicella:
Grapes: Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara.
Region: Veneto.
Tasting Notes: Valpolicella wines are light to medium-bodied with flavors of cherries, red berries, and a hint of spice. The Valpolicella Classico is particularly well-suited for spring sipping. These wines pair excellently with a range of dishes, including antipasti and grilled fish. This one is on sale right now and I'll be purchasing a few to go along with my lighter dinners like grilled chicken salad
Dolcetto:
Grapes: Dolcetto.
Region: Piedmont.
Tasting Notes: Dolcetto, despite its name meaning "little sweet one," is a dry red wine. It offers a softer profile compared to some other Italian reds, with notes of blackberry, plum, and a subtle bitter almond finish. Dolcetto is a versatile wine that can accompany lighter spring fare. I drink this one like I would a Pinot Noir and will pair it with my favorite grilled beef rib recipe.
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo:
Grapes: Montepulciano.
Region: Abruzzo.
Tasting Notes: Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines are known for their deep color, moderate tannins, and flavors of dark berries. These wines are approachable and pair well with a variety of foods, making them a great choice for spring picnics, barbecues, or casual outdoor dining. Ahh, the season of outdoor dining is here and this one will be first on my list! It's dry and bold enough to match the barbeque dishes but good enough on its own to sip while hanging out and waiting for the meal to be ready.
When enjoying red Italian wines in the spring, it's essential to consider the weather and the types of dishes typically associated with the season. These selections offer a balance of freshness and flavor, making them perfect companions for the blooming days of spring.
Happy Sipping!
-Allison
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