Discover the 5 Most Iconic Wine Roads in Italy

Do you know the wine road in Italy?

Suppose Italy is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world. In that case, this is not only due to the presence of an invaluable historical and artistic heritage and the incredible variety of its landscapes but also to the vibrant food and wine offered, recognized everywhere as one of the distinctive traits of the Belpaese. And among the delights of the table, our wines certainly play a fundamental role.

Thanks to the work of many winemakers, the Italian wine industry has reached absolute excellence in quality and quantity for years, consecrating the country as the world's largest wine exporter.

On this journey from north to south of the Italian peninsula, we discover the wines of Italy by choosing ten itineraries - one per region - to get to know some terroirs that have made Italian wines great worldwide. Have a good trip!

1) SICILY WINE ROAD

Although Sicily is known above all for its more than 900 km of coast, it represents a place of all respect on the map of Italian wines. Although viticulture in Sicily has a millenary tradition, the island began producing quality wines about 20 years ago, enhancing native grapes such as Grillo, Zibibbo, and Frappato. Wineries like Planeta, Tasca d’Almerita, and Donnafugata - located on the largest island in Sicily, Pantelleria - will provide excellent wines.

Val di Noto Wine Route
Also known as the Nero d’Avola wine route, we are on the southeastern tip of Sicily, in one of the most southern areas of Europe, in the stretch of coast from Syracuse to Capo Passero. You can choose two routes: the main one has its epicenter in Noto, while the second one is divided into two and focuses on the areas of Avola and Pachino.

The wine road of Noto winds through these main agricultural areas, where you can experience the local cheese, such as ricotta and caciocavallo Ragusano, which will delight your palate during your food and wine tour. In addition, the seaside has provided quality fish for thousands of years, and it is certainly worth tasting local tuna and swordfish, especially if you are near the charming village of Marzamemi.

The DOC wines to discover are Eloro, Moscato di Noto and Moscato di Siracusa in the "Terra del Nero d'Avola". This area has always been excellent for growing grapes due to the lack of rain.

2) Exploring the Wine Regions of Piedmont

Piedmont is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs in the northwestern corner of Italy. Known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and culinary traditions, Piedmont boasts some of the most prestigious wine regions in the world.

Barolo and Barbaresco: The Kings and Queens of Wine
The rolling hills of the Langhe region are home to the world-famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines, both crafted from the noble Nebbiolo grape.

Barolo: Often called "the King of Wines," Barolo is bold, complex, and full-bodied, with aromas of roses, tar, and truffle. Aged for at least three years, it pairs perfectly with hearty dishes like braised meats and risottos.
Barbaresco: Known as the "Queen of Wines," Barbaresco is slightly lighter and more elegant than Barolo, with similar floral and earthy notes. Its finesse makes it a delightful companion to cheeses and roasted vegetables.
Asti and Alba: The Sparkling Heart of Piedmont
Piedmont is also renowned for its sparkling wines, particularly those from the Asti and Alba regions.

Asti Spumante and Moscato d'Asti: These sparkling wines, made from the Moscato grape, are fresh, aromatic, and slightly sweet, making them a perfect choice for celebrations or as a pairing with desserts.
Alba: Known for its Barbera d'Alba and Dolcetto d'Alba, this area produces vibrant red wines that are approachable yet flavorful, ideal for everyday enjoyment.
Gavi: The White Jewel of Piedmont
In the southern part of Piedmont lies the Gavi DOCG, a region celebrated for its elegant white wines made from the Cortese grape. Crisp, mineral-driven, and with notes of citrus and almond, Gavi wines are a refreshing contrast to the region’s reds.

The Monferrato and Roero Regions
These lesser-known yet equally charming regions produce wines, including Barbera, Grignolino, and Arneis.

Barbera: Known for its vibrant acidity and red fruit flavors, Barbera is versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes.
Roero Arneis: A delightful white wine with floral and stone fruit notes, often called "the little rascal" for its challenging cultivation.
Truffles and Wine: A Perfect Pairing
Piedmont’s wine regions are not only about exceptional wines but also about the culinary treasures they accompany. The area is famous for its white truffles, particularly from Alba, which pair exquisitely with Barolo and Barbaresco wines.

A Journey Through Tradition
Visiting the wine regions of Piedmont offers more than just tastings; it’s a journey through centuries-old traditions, picturesque vineyards, and charming villages. Whether you’re exploring the cellars of historic wineries or savoring local delicacies at a trattoria, Piedmont promises an unforgettable experience for all who appreciate the art of wine.

Exploring the Wine Roads of Tuscany

Strada del Vino Chianti Classico

Region: Between Florence and Siena

Wines: Chianti Classico DOCG, distinguished by its signature black rooster (Gallo Nero) symbol, is a medium to full-bodied red wine with flavors of cherries, herbs, and spices.

Highlights:
Visit historic wineries and cellars in villages like Greve, Radda, and Castellina in Chianti.
Explore picturesque landscapes dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and castles.
Pair your wine with traditional dishes like wild boar ragu or ribollita soup.

Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Region: Around Montepulciano

Wines: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, a robust red wine made primarily from Sangiovese (locally called Prugnolo Gentile).

Highlights:
Tour ancient underground cellars carved into the town's foundations.
Stroll through Montepulciano's Renaissance streets and visit landmarks like Piazza Grande.
Enjoy tastings paired with pecorino cheese from nearby Pienza.

Strada del Vino Orcia

Region: Val d’Orcia (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Wines: Orcia DOC, known for its elegant reds and balanced whites.

Highlights:
Discover idyllic towns like Pienza, Bagno Vignoni, and San Quirico d’Orcia.
Combine wine tastings with visits to thermal baths and panoramic hikes.
Experience the region’s dedication to sustainable and biodynamic winemaking.

Strada del Brunello di Montalcino

Region: Around Montalcino

Wines: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, a prestigious red wine made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes, aged for a minimum of five years.

Highlights:
Visit renowned estates and boutique wineries producing some of Italy’s most celebrated wines.
Explore the medieval town of Montalcino and its fortress.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside while sipping Brunello.

Strada del Vino Costa degli Etruschi

Region: Tuscan coast, near Bolgheri

Wines: Known for Super Tuscan wines like Sassicaia and Ornellaia, made with international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Highlights:
Drive along the famous Cypress Avenue of Bolgheri.
Taste iconic wines at prestigious wineries.
Enjoy the coastal charm, combining wine tours with beachside relaxation.

Strada del Vino Vernaccia di San Gimignano

Region: Around San Gimignano

Wines: Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, a crisp, mineral-rich white wine with floral and citrus notes.

Highlights:
Visit the medieval towers of San Gimignano, known as the "Town of Fine Towers."
Tour local wineries producing one of Italy’s oldest documented wines.
Pair Vernaccia with Tuscan starters like bruschetta or panzanella.

Strada del Vino delle Colline Lucchesi e Montecarlo

Region: Around Lucca and Montecarlo

Wines: A mix of reds (from Sangiovese) and whites (from Vermentino and Trebbiano).

Highlights:
Explore charming towns like Montecarlo and Lucca, rich in history and architecture.
Enjoy tastings in family-run vineyards with a long-standing tradition of winemaking.
Combine wine tours with visits to Lucca’s Renaissance walls and local olive oil producers.

Strada del Vino dei Colli di Candia e di Lunigiana

Region: Northern Tuscany, near Massa and Carrara

Wines: Candia dei Colli Apuani DOC, fresh whites, and light reds.

Highlights:
Experience the unique terroir near the marble quarries of Carrara.
Discover the ancient culinary traditions of Lunigiana, including testaroli and honey.
Visit vineyards nestled between the Apennine mountains and the Ligurian Sea. 

Discovering the Wine Roads of Veneto

The Veneto region in northeastern Italy has extraordinary beauty, rich history, and world-class wines. Its wine roads (strade del vino) offer travelers a unique journey through enchanting landscapes, charming villages, and celebrated vineyards. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply a lover of Italian culture, exploring these routes is an unforgettable experience.

Prosecco Road (Strada del Prosecco)
The Prosecco Road is Veneto's most famous wine route in the rolling hills between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. This area is the birthplace of Prosecco Superiore DOCG, Italy’s beloved sparkling wine.

Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings at historic wineries while enjoying breathtaking views of terraced vineyards.
Pair your glass of Prosecco with local delicacies such as fresh cheeses, cured meats, and seafood dishes.

Valpolicella Wine Route
Stretching through the hills near Verona, the Valpolicella region is synonymous with robust and elegant red wines, including Valpolicella Classico, Ripasso, and the world-renowned Amarone della Valpolicella.

Explore picturesque villages like Negrar and Fumane, where centuries-old wineries and family-run estates welcome guests with warm hospitality.
The route is also rich in history, with Romanesque churches, ancient villas, and archaeological sites to discover.

Soave Wine Route
East of Verona, the Soave Wine Route winds through gently sloping hills covered in vineyards producing the acclaimed Soave DOC and Soave Superiore DOCG white wines.

Soave wines are known for their crisp, mineral qualities and floral aromas, perfect for pairing with fish and light pastas.
With its impressive Scaliger Castle, the medieval town of Soave highlights this route.

Lake Garda Wine Road
The area around Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, is home to several wine-producing regions, including Bardolino, known for its light and fruity red wines, and Lugana, famous for its elegant white wines.

The lake's scenic beauty, with its turquoise waters and olive groves, provides a stunning backdrop to wine tastings.
Many wineries along this route offer outdoor tastings, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene lake views.

Colli Euganei Wine Route
The Colli Euganei is a hidden gem of Veneto's wine culture in the volcanic hills near Padua. This area is known for its Colli Euganei Fior d'Arancio DOCG, a fragrant Moscato wine, structured reds, and refreshing whites.

The route offers a blend of nature, history, and relaxation, with thermal spas, ancient monasteries, and scenic hiking trails.

A Celebration of Veneto’s Wine Heritage
Traveling the wine roads of Veneto is more than just a tasting journey—it’s a cultural immersion. These routes showcase the region’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to lake shores, and its deep-rooted winemaking traditions. Whether you’re sampling sparkling Prosecco, bold Amarone, or crisp Soave, each glass tells the story of this enchanting region.

Raise a glass and toast to the unforgettable flavors and experiences waiting along Veneto’s wine roads!

Exploring the Wine Roads of Puglia

Puglia, the sun-kissed heel of Italy’s boot, has ancient traditions, stunning landscapes, and a rich wine heritage. Known for its fertile plains, endless olive groves, and vibrant vineyards, Puglia offers an unforgettable journey through its strade del vino (wine roads), where each glass of wine celebrates the region’s history and culture.

The Wine Roads of Puglia

Salento Wine Road
Stretching across the southernmost part of Puglia, the Salento Wine Road winds through a land of sun-drenched vineyards and charming coastal towns.

Wines to Try: Salento is famous for Primitivo di Manduria DOC and Negroamaro, bold and full-bodied reds with intense fruit flavors.
Highlights: Visit Lecce, the "Florence of the South," with its stunning Baroque architecture, and explore small villages where wineries blend ancient techniques with modern innovation.

Castel del Monte Wine Road
Centered around the UNESCO-listed Castel del Monte, this wine road showcases the wines of northern Puglia.

Wines to Try: The region is renowned for its Castel del Monte Nero di Troia DOCG, a red wine with rich berry notes and elegant structure, and Bombino Bianco, a refreshing white wine.
Highlights: Along the way, you can visit the iconic octagonal Castel del Monte, explore picturesque hilltop towns, and enjoy tastings at historic wineries.

Gioia del Colle Wine Road
This route, located in central Puglia, is the birthplace of Primitivo, one of Puglia's most famous grape varieties.

Wines to Try: Primitivo di Gioia del Colle DOC offers a unique expression of the grape, with flavors of blackberries, spices, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.

Highlights: Tour family-run wineries, where traditional winemaking methods are still practiced, and savor local cuisine featuring handmade orecchiette pasta and burrata cheese.

Brindisi and Ostuni Wine Road
Running along the Adriatic coastline, this wine road combines the beauty of seaside landscapes with exceptional wines.

Wines to Try: Look for Susumaniello, a rediscovered indigenous red grape, and Verdeca, a crisp white wine.

Highlights: Visit the whitewashed town of Ostuni, known as the "White City," and enjoy tastings in scenic vineyards overlooking the sea.

Murgia dei Trulli Wine Road
This route meanders through the heart of Puglia’s iconic landscape of Trulli, the traditional dry-stone huts with conical roofs.

Wines to Try: The area produces various wines, including Fiano Minutolo, an aromatic white, and elegant sparkling wines.

Highlights: Explore the enchanting town of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy guided tastings at boutique wineries.

A Journey Through Flavor and Tradition
Puglia’s wine roads offer more than just tastings—they are a journey through a land where winemaking is a way of life. The region's Mediterranean climate, fertile soil, and ancient grape varieties create wines deeply rooted in the local terroir.

As you travel these routes, you’ll discover exceptional wines and experience Puglia’s vibrant culture, from traditional cuisine to warm hospitality. With every sip, Puglia invites you to savor the essence of this remarkable region.