The Wine

The world of wine is vast and fascinating, characterized by a multiplicity of typologies, classifications and denominations that reflect the diversity of territories, vines and winemaking traditions. In this text, we will explore the main categories of wines, analyzing their distinctive characteristics, production methods and ideal food pairings.

Classification of Wines by Type

The classification of wines can take place according to various criteria, including the typology, which is based on the organoleptic characteristics and the production method. The main types of wine are:

White wine

Obtained from the fermentation of white grapes or, in some cases, red grapes vinified in white (without contact with the skins), white wine is distinguished by its color which varies from straw yellow to golden. Its organoleptic characteristics include freshness, acidity and fruity or floral aromas. Ideal pairings include fish dishes, white meats, fresh cheeses and vegetables.

Red wine

Produced by the fermentation of red grapes with maceration of the skins, red wine has a chromatic range that goes from ruby ​​red to garnet. Its characteristics include tannicity, structure and aromas of red fruit or spices. It pairs perfectly with red meats, game, mature cheeses and dishes rich in flavour.

Rosé wine

Derived from a brief maceration of the skins of red grapes, rosé wine offers a color that ranges from pale pink to cherry. Its characteristics combine the freshness of whites with a light structure of reds. It is ideal with appetizers, fish dishes, white meats and summer cuisine.

Sparkling wine

Characterized by the presence of carbon dioxide which gives effervescence, sparkling wine can be produced with the classic method (refermentation in the bottle) or the Charmat method (refermentation in an autoclave). Sparkling wines are distinguished based on the residual sugar: Brut, Extra Dry, Dry and Demi-Sec. They are perfect for aperitifs, fish dishes, shellfish and desserts.

Passito wine

Obtained from dried grapes, which concentrate sugars and aromas, passito is a sweet wine, often used as a dessert wine. It goes well with dry pastries, blue cheeses and foie gras.

Novello wine

Produced with carbonic maceration, the new wine is light, fruity and intended for immediate consumption. It is ideal with chestnuts, cured meats and autumn dishes.

Classification of Wines by Denomination

In Italy, the classification of wines by denomination is regulated to guarantee the quality and origin of the products. The main categories are:

Table or generic wines

They are wines without specific geographical indication, produced with grapes coming from different areas. It is not possible to indicate the vines used or the vintage on the label. They can be released for consumption loose, in demijohns or in various types of containers.

I.G.T. wines (Typical Geographical Indication)

This category identifies wines produced in specific geographical areas, with a certain freedom in the choice of vines and winemaking methods. The vintage and grape variety may appear on the label.

D.O.C. wines (Controlled Designation of Origin)

They represent a superior quality category, with specifications that regulate vines, production areas and winemaking techniques. DOC wines must be subjected to chemical-physical and organoleptic analyzes before being released for consumption.

D.O.C.G. wines (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin)

They constitute the apex of the qualitative pyramid of Italian wines. In addition to the requirements of DOC wines, DOCG wines are subjected to even more rigorous controls and each bottle is marked with a numbered band issued by the control body.

The Distinctions Classic, Reserve, Superiore, Novello and Passito

Within the denominations, there are further specifications that indicate particular characteristics of the wine:

Classic

Indicates a wine produced in the original and oldest area of ​​the denomination, often considered the most suitable.

Reserve

It refers to wines that have undergone a longer aging period than the basic version, with specific requirements established by the production specification.

Superior

Denotes a wine with a higher alcohol content than the standard version, often obtained through a more careful selection of the grapes.

Novello

Indicates a young wine, bottled and marketed shortly after the harvest, characterized by freshness and fruity aromas.

Passito

It refers to wines made from dried grapes, which give the final product a higher concentration of sugars and aromas, often resulting in sweet or fortified wines.

These classifications and specifications help consumers to better understand the characteristics of Italian wines and make more informed choices based on their preferences