Italy is home to one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed winemaking traditions, a legacy spanning over 4,000 years. The 350+ Italian wines crafted from the 1600 grape varieties grown across Italy’s geographically and culturally diverse regions are a testament to this rich history.
Travelers come from around the world to experience Italian wine culture, whether it’s for visiting historic winemakers and enjoying the countryside or dropping into a traditional enoteca or wine bar in the heart of Rome, a visit to Italy wouldn’t be complete without delving into the Italian world of wine. From off the beaten path destinations like the Le Marche region known for producing the top whites in the world to the verdant vineyards of the UNESCO prosecco hills there’s a wine to accompany every dish you’ll enjoy on your trip to Italy.
Italy’ notoriety for quality wine didn’t just happen by surprise. One of the reasons Italian wine is so prestigious are the strict quality designations that ensure authenticity for you, the consumer. These designations are not just rules but a commitment to preserving a cultural experience that many believe should be upheld, maintaining the traditions that Italian wine producers have spent thousands of years building.
It’s these quality standards that make Italian wines perfect to pair with the local dishes and free of defects. Understanding a few key terms associated with Italian wines can help you choose the perfect wine for any dinner, whether you want to impress friends at a dinner party hosted at home or understand these terms for your upcoming trip to Italy.
Pour yourself a glass of your favorite vintage and prepare to take your wine knowledge to new heights – cin, cin!
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/italian-wine-classifications-min.png” alt=”italian wine classifications italy tours” title_text=”italian wine classifications-min” url=”https://theitalianontour.com/group-travel” align=”center” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”||2.5%|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_id=”christmaseve” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”24px” header_3_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_3_font_size=”20px” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”40px||9px||false|” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]#1: IGT – Indicazione Geografica Tipica
When exploring Italian wines, you’ll frequently see the term “IGT” on labels. Short for Indicazione Geografica Tipica, this classification is crucial for understanding the quality and origin of the wines you enjoy.
IGT is one of the three primary quality classifications for Italian wines, sitting between the basic Vino da Tavola (table wine) and the more stringent DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) categories.
Introduced in 1992, the IGT classification was created to give winemakers more flexibility to experiment with grape varieties and winemaking techniques while still ensuring quality and regional authenticity.
The flexibility of the IGT classification has led to a proliferation of experimental and diverse wines. Winemakers can blend international grape varieties with native Italian grapes, creating unique flavor profiles that appeal to a wide range of palates. The variety within this category means several food pairings can work depending on the wine.
The production area for these wines is quite large, but the bottle can show the type of grape it is made with. These wines are often ready to be consumed within a year of production and are not generally recommended for aging.
Interested in getting an inside look at the production of IGT wines? Guests on the Italy Uncorked tour will visit a winery first known for producing Nebbiolo di Gubbio wine! Join us in wine country for this nine-day tour that includes three exclusive winery experiences across the regions of Umbria and Le Marche.
#2: DOC – Denominazione di Origine Controllata
Among the key terms every wine lover should know, “DOC” stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata. This classification signifies a significant step up in quality and authenticity from the basic table wines and IGT wines, offering a guarantee of the wine’s regional origin and production standards.
Introduced in the 1960s, DOC status is awarded to wines that meet stringent regulations regarding grape varieties, production methods, and geographical boundaries.
DOC wines must adhere to strict production rules that control everything from grape varieties and yields to aging processes and alcohol content. These regulations are designed to maintain high standards and preserve the wine’s traditional qualities.
Additionally, each DOC wine comes from a clearly defined geographical area. The label will indicate the region, and often the vineyard from which it comes, which is important in upholding the heritage and cultural traditions passed down in each geographical area.
#3: DOCG – Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita
One of the most prestigious classifications in the world of Italian wine is “DOCG,” which stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita. This designation represents the pinnacle of quality and authenticity in Italian winemaking, reserved only for wines that meet the highest standards.
DOCG wines have the lowest production per hectare of any other type of wine, which ensures quality over quantity in any wine with this illustrious label. Wines with this label are defined by a stringent process for selecting the grapes and reserved for specific regions demonstrating excellence in winemaking over time.
Introduced in 1980, it was created to provide an additional layer of quality assurance beyond the DOC level, with the additional “G” meaning “guaranteed.” Wines with DOCG status must undergo even more stringent regulations and rigorous testing to ensure they meet the highest standards of excellence.
These rules govern everything from grape varieties and vineyard yields to vinification processes and aging periods. Additionally, DOCG wines must undergo sensory analysis and chemical testing before bottling and labeling.
DOCG wines represent the best of the best in Italian wines, making them an item not only for consumption but also for collection by the most devoted Italian wine lovers. Many who visit Italy buy a bottle of DOCG and save it for a special occasion – especially since these wines are best served aged!
#4: Classico
“Classico” denotes wines produced in the original, historically significant areas of certain Italian wine regions. These areas are typically considered the heartland or “classic” zones where winemaking traditions have been established for centuries.
Because Classico vineyards are often located in the best parts of a region, the wines tend to exhibit greater concentration and complexity. The soils, microclimates, and established vineyard practices contribute to producing wines with more depth and character.
Some of the most notable examples of Classico wines are the Chianti Classico of the central part of Tuscany, the Soave Classico Veneto, and the Valpolicella Classico of Veneto.
Read our Quick Guide to Chianti to brush up on your knowledge of one of Italy’s most renowned Classico wines!
#5: Riserva
The term “Riserva” on an Italian wine label signifies that the wine has been aged longer than the standard version of the same wine. This aging process allows the wine to develop additional depth of flavor, smoother tannins, and greater complexity. The aging period must be at least one year for white wines and at least two years for red wines.
The aging process in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks (for white wines) adds complexity to the flavor of Riserva wines. In addition to their primary fruit flavors, Riserva wines may develop aromas of spices, tobacco, leather, and dried fruits.
Riserva wines can continue to evolve and improve in the bottle for many years, making them a worthy investment for potential cellaring!
Planning a visit to Italy to experience Italian wine culture for yourself and buy an authentic bottle to take home? Click here to find out the best time for wine lovers to visit Italy!
#6: Superiore
“Superiore” denotes wines that surpass standard quality expectations, typically offering enhanced flavors, structure, or aging potential. This designation signifies a step up in quality within its specific regional context.
Regulations for this designation often dictate factors such as grape variety, vineyard practices, yields, and aging requirements. Superiore is attributed to wines in which the grapes produce at least 10% less grapes than the equivalent non-denominated wine.
For example, the Valpolicella and the Valpolicella Superiore are produced from the same grapes, but the Superiore has a lower yield, which equates to higher quality.
Superiore wines typically hail from specific sub-regions or microclimates within larger wine regions. These areas are recognized for producing wines with unique characteristics that reflect the best winemaking traditions.
#7: Passito
“Passito” represents a category of wines renowned for their sweetness and rich flavors. This term refers to a winemaking technique where grapes are dried before fermentation, resulting in concentrated sugars and distinctive dessert-style wines.
Passito wines are made using a traditional method called appassimento, where grapes are dried either on the vine or after harvest. This process causes the grapes to lose water content, concentrating sugars, acids, and flavors. They often exhibit flavors of dried fruits, such as raisins, figs, apricots, and honey, with a velvety texture.
Passito wines make excellent dessert companions, enhancing the flavors of cakes, pastries, and even savory dishes like foie gras or blue cheese. Their sweetness can balance out salty or spicy flavors. They can also be served on their own as dessert wines!
Now that you better understand these essential terms for Italian wine lovers, you’ll be able to talk about wine with friends at your next dinner party or even on a trip to Italy!
If you’re a wine lover, you’ve probably wanted to taste Italy’s finest wines like a local. While many think of Tuscany as Italy’s top wine region, the neighboring region of Umbria is a lesser-known hidden gem.
When you join us on our Italy Uncorked tour, you’ll get three tasting experiences at award-winning wineries – plus a wine taste at a regional Enoteca!
You’ll also meet one of Le Marche’s Top Wine Producers to learn about the latest innovations in wine production and dine on a curated tasting menu overlooking the hills of Castelli di Jesi. As locals and travel/wine experts, we’ve crafted a once-in-a-lifetime experience for lovers of Italian wine like you.
NEED HELP UNDERSTANDING ITALIAN WINE CLASSIFICATIONS ON YOUR NEXT TRIP TO THE LOCAL WINE SHOP?
SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb use_icon=”on” font_icon=”"||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc9933″ _builder_version=”4.20.2″ custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_image src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/7-Essential-Terms-Every-Italian-Wine-Lover-Needs-to-Know-italy-wine-tours-min.png” alt=”italian wine terms italy tours” title_text=”7 Essential Terms Every Italian Wine Lover Needs to Know italy wine tours-min” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||74px|||” custom_padding=”||50px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_post_nav in_same_term=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” title_font_size=”16px” title_font_size_tablet=”16px” title_font_size_phone=”14px” title_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_links=”color: #333333″ use_border_color=”off” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_post_nav][et_pb_heading title=”EXPERIENCE THE REAL ITALY WITH THESE TRIPS” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”mostra-regular|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#333333″ title_font_size=”33px” custom_padding=”58px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_heading][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||62px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ include_categories=”1067″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_portfolio][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ include_categories=”1064″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_portfolio][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ include_categories=”1065″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_portfolio][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_portfolio][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f9f9f9″ width=”90%” max_width=”95%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|auto|2px|auto||” custom_padding=”50px|10px|50px|10px|true|true” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/best-italy-tours-for-food-and-wine-lovers-to-escape-the-crowds-the-italian-on-tour-min.png” alt=”best italy tours for food and wine lovers” title_text=”best italy tours for food and wine lovers to escape the crowds the italian on tour-min” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_signup provider=”mailerlite” mailerlite_list=”info@theitalianontour.com|42767274″ last_name_field=”off” success_action=”redirect” success_redirect_url=”https://theitalianontour.com/thank-you-page-top-10-mistakes-even-smart-travellers-make/” button_text=”Yes! I want my FREE ITALY INSIDER GUIDE!” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”14px” button_text_color=”#333333″ button_bg_color=”#cc9933″ button_border_width=”0px” button_font=”|700||on|||||” border_style_all=”none” box_shadow_style_button=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_signup][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_custom_width=”on” width_unit=”off” custom_width_percent=”60%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]
