There is no denying the vast array of Italian wine terms which can vary from region to region, making it difficult to know what they all mean. Today we explore 12 of the most common and vital Italian wine terms you need to know, such as DOCG, DOC, and IGT.
Let’s start with DOCG – Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita. Quite literally translated as “controlled and guaranteed designation of origin”, DOCG wines come with a guarantee of high quality related to their geographic origin. They may only be made according to the country’s specified regional regulations, ensuring they maintain the same style and quality each time they are produced.
The next term is DOC – Denominazione di Origine Controllata. This designation of origin was introduced in 1963 and indicates that a specific quality of grapes from an Italian region must be used to produce the wine. DOC wines must also adhere to specific production methods – for example, DOC wines in Barolo are aged for a minimum of two years before release.
IGT stands for Indicazione Geografica Tipica and is a certification for Italian wines which is assigned to those wines made using local grapes which are farmed and produced within the Italian regions. IGT wine plants must provide detailed documentation on the production process and they must also prove that the grapes solely come from the stated region.
Amarone is one of the oldest Italian grape varieties and it is used in the production of Amarone della Valpolicella. This type of wine is vinified as a dry red wine, where the harvested grapes are left to dry and ferment in a process called appassimento. The resulting rich and velvety taste make Amarone della Valpolicella one of the most well-loved Italian wines.
Franciacorta is another classic Italian wine and has been produced in the Lombardy region since the Middle Ages. It is made using the traditional method, a process that creates champagne-like sparkling wines from the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varieties. Appassimento is also used in the production of Franciacorta, allowing for a wonderfully complex and fruit-forward flavor.
Nebbiolo is an ancient Italian grape variety which is mainly found in the Piedmont region. It is renowned for producing some of Italy’s best red wines, such as Barolo and Barbaresco, both of which require a minimum ageing period of two years before being released for sale. The grape variety is recognized for its intense tannins, high acidity, and unique bouquet of aromas.
Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a white wine made from the Vernaccia grape variety grown exclusively in the Tuscan town of San Gimignano. It is a crisp, fruity wine that has been produced in the area since the 1300s and is now officially recognized with DOCG status.
Another classic white wine you need to know about is Soave DOC. This wine is made in the Veneto region and is produced with a combination of Garganega and Trebbiano di Soave grapes. The resulting white wine has a bright, golden color and an intense nose of almond and subtle notes of zesty citrus fruits.
Barbaresco is an Italian red wine made using 100% Nebbiolo grapes from the Piedmont region. Produced near the town of Alba, this DOCG wine is known for its powerful aromas of ripe red fruits such as cherries and plums. Its full-bodied taste is accompanied by notes of tobacco and dried herbs, making it a perfect accompaniment to rich, meaty dishes.
Brunello di Montalcino is yet another important Italian red. It is made with the Sangiovese grape variety and is steeped in tradition, with the first bottles of Brunello di Montalcino having been made in the late 19th century. The resulting ruby-red colored wine has a full-bodied taste and intense aromas of red fruits and spices, making it one of the most exquisite Italian wines.
These are just 12 of the many Italian wine terms you need to know. From DOCG and DOC to Amarone and Barbaresco, these words are essential to understanding the culture and diversity of Italian wine. With so much variety available, it’s no wonder that Italian wines are so highly appreciated by oenophiles all over the world.
