Italys 20 wine producing regions divide into four sections, each producing some of the finest Italian wines. There are the Northeast regions, Northcentral and Northwest regions, Central regions, and The South and Islands regions. Although there are similarities between these four sections regarding climate, grape varieties, and scientific practices, the divisions really just provide a point of orientation.
Italian wines are really distinguished more accurately from specific region to region. The 20 regions all have a separate political entity with individual powers that balance with national laws. The Northeast regions, three regions known collectively as Venezie, produce more classified wine than any other of the four sections. These regions really set a type of standard in Italy for crafting wines.
In the North Central and Northwest, five regions produce approximately 20% of all Italian wine. The types of wine from these regions vary greatly due to variations in soil and climate, so they are grouped loosely, but still maintain their own identities. The Central section is led by the Tuscany and Chianti red wines, rapidly gaining recognition for such elegant Italian wines. Finally, the South and Islands produce about 40% of all Italian wine, however only accounting for 7% DOC (classified).
Importers of Italian Wines
With so many Italian regions that produce wines of varying quality and classification, those who wish to enjoy these can find many options that fall into any price range. Germany, France, the UK, and the US are primary importers of Italian wine. Over the last ten years, Italian wine makers focused on producing better quality wine, which lowered quantity, but truly added value to their exports.
