« Welcome Food Lovers | Main | Easter Wines »

Italian Whites

It goes without saying that shopping for wines can be a daunting affair. There are so many choices, so many labels and so much information to decipher. One of the most overwhelming collections of wines to choose from hails from Italy. A country known as the “land of the grapevine”, Italy has a long history of winemaking and the distinction of being the top producer in the world.

In the last quarter of the 20th century, Italian wine producers recognized that their wines needed some refinement if they were to compete on a world wide level. As a result, label designations were created and guidelines were established. There are two bits of information on Italian wines that reflect the winemakers’ commitment to quality products. The first is Denominazione di Origine Controllata, usually found just under the name of the wine. It designates an outline of specific place names and the development of wine districts by the government. An inspection period must first be satisfied before a vintner can place the D.O.C. rating on his bottle labels.

The best information you can find on an Italian wine label is Denominazione di Origine Controllata Garantita or D.O.C.G. This signifies the highest category given and reflects a guarantee by the government of the quality of the wine. Armed with this information, Italian wine selecting can be just a little easier.

Palazone Orvieto Classico Vintage 2003 is a D.O.C. rated wine to consider. Clean and clear in the glass, the color is reminiscent of straw. In the nose, the wine offers hints of green apples, green peppers and a distant wisp of banana. A soft acidity glows on the palate, offering fruity and pleasant layers of flavor with a distant bitter overtone. The finish is warm and lasting that glows for a moment or two. Serve this Orvieto with pasta and clam sauce or Italian cheese and some fresh grapes.

Teruzzi & Puthod Vernaccia Di San Gimignano Vintage 2002 is a D.O.C.G. wine worthy of your shopping cart. Vernaccia has been produced since at least the 13th century, maybe before. Its faint golden yellow color sends out a bouquet that’s fresh and clean, offering the scents of celery and lemons. Taste it and see if you don’t find it fresh, lively and bracing. A nice acidity makes it a wine of distinction. The finish is rapid and cleansing. This Vernaccia is perfect with antipasto or grilled seafood made with herbs, garlic and butter sauce.

But, don’t assume that if an Italian wine doesn’t have a D.O.C. or D.O.C.G. rating, it isn’t worthy. Shop around, ask questions and make your own discoveries.

“Never apologize for, or be afraid of, your own taste in wine. Preferences for wines vary just as much as those for art or music.” Hubrecht Duijker

Posted by Floyd at March 17, 2005 04:04 PM