The Perfect Pour - Italy's Grape Varieties

Some of the world's oldest wines come from Italy.  Did you know Italy has over 2,000 native grapes? 

Many customers do not recognize the various names of Italian wines, such as: Barbera, Lambrusco, Cuvee, Sauvigon Blanc, Moscato, Cortese, Dolcetto, Barolo, Barbaresco, Rose', Chianti, Valpolicella, Sangiovese, Trebbiano, Montepulciano, and many others too numerous to mention.  But, they are all great wines! 

What makes Italian wines different is the soil and climate.  Different regions in Italy have different soil conditions and minerals, different growing conditions and different climate from sea side to mountains.  Italian wines are full bodied, yet sweeter than many others [with exception of German wines]. 

Let's discuss the most widely known Italian wine, the Chianti.  The region lays between two great art cities of Florence and Siena.  The altitude ranges from 300 feet above sea level to around 2,000 feet above sea level.  The area is 1/5th mountain and 2/3rd hills.  The coastal area is open and flat.  The basic soil type is sandy-calcareous marl, variations in the mix of clay, stones and minerals.  The most prized soil contains a flaky compressed clay called galestro or a rocky substance called alberese.    The climate is hot, dry summers with risk of harvest rains.  The coastal climate is warm and dry.  July, for instance, averages 75 degrees F.  Now, I don't know about the grapes; however, the weather is perfect for me!

Don't be afraid to experiment with your wines.  Variety is the spice of life!  Try different varieties to determine those that meet your requirements best.  At Kirk's Korner we carry a variety of Italian wines and will try to suit any call needs you might have.  The Perfect Pour is here for our customer's enjoyment and love of wines!