New Wave Italian Wines, Regions and Grapes to Watch
New wave Italian wines are redefining the country's centuries-old winemaking traditions with a bold, modern twist. These wines come from innovative producers who are blending minimal intervention techniques with a deep respect for terroir, resulting in fresh, expressive bottles that break away from the stereotypical heavy reds and rustic whites. From the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, where Nerello Mascalese and Carricante are gaining cult status, to the alpine vineyards of Trentino-Alto Adige showcasing bright, mineral-driven whites like Kerner and Müller-Thurgau, Italy's new wave is as diverse as it is exciting. Keep an eye on lesser-known regions like Emilia-Romagna, where skin-contact wines from Trebbiano and Malvasia are turning heads, and Le Marche, where Verdicchio is being reimagined with serious structure and age-worthiness. Whether it’s through natural winemaking, experimental blends, or rediscovery of indigenous grapes, these producers are proving that Italy's wine future is just as compelling as its past.
Sicily
Sicilian wines are quickly emerging as some of the most exciting in the world, thanks to the island's unique terroir, ancient winemaking traditions, and a new wave of passionate producers. With volcanic soils from Mount Etna, sun-drenched vineyards, and indigenous grape varieties like Nero d'Avola, Frappato, and Carricante, Sicily is producing wines with remarkable character, freshness, and complexity. The region is shedding its bulk wine past and gaining international acclaim for high-quality, expressive wines that reflect both place and innovation. If you’re into discovering the next big thing in wine, Sicily is a region to watch closely. A Carricante with attitude,
I Custodi, Imbris, 2018, from the ash-covered banks of Mount Etna. Rich, herbaceous and intense citrus, everything you need to understand the ancient landscape of this island and its offerings.
Trentino
Trentino, nestled in the heart of northern Italy, is fast becoming a wine region to watch thanks to its unique alpine terroir, sustainable viticulture, and growing reputation for crisp, elegant wines. With cool mountain breezes and dramatic diurnal temperature shifts, the region's commitment to quality over quantity, along with a surge in organic and biodynamic practices, has caught the attention of sommeliers and wine lovers worldwide. As climate change challenges traditional wine areas, Trentino’s altitude and innovation position it as a rising star in the global wine scene. Berry, peppery and juicy, the Eugenio Rosi, Riflesso Rossi, 2022 captures these flavours and the alpine air in a single bottle.
Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna is an under-the-radar gem in the world of Italian wine, blending centuries-old tradition with a modern, experimental spirit. Known for its vibrant Lambrusco, crisp Pignoletto, and elegant Sangiovese, the region offers a diverse palette that reflects its rich culinary heritage—after all, this is the home of Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar. What makes Emilia-Romagna a region to watch is its quiet revolution: young winemakers are embracing organic practices, reviving forgotten grapes, and crafting bottles with depth, personality, and a real sense of place. It's not just about what's in the glass—it's about the story behind it. Take a look at the Camillo Donati, Malvasia Secco Pet Nat, 2023 if you want a taste of new school winemaking meets old school region.
Le Marche
Le Marche, a hidden gem nestled between the Apennines and the Adriatic Sea in central Italy, is quietly producing some of the country’s most exciting wines. Known for its stunning Verdicchio—crisp, mineral-driven, and age-worthy whites—as well as increasingly expressive reds like Rosso Conero and Rosso Piceno, the region blends tradition with innovation. Small, passionate producers are elevating native grapes and sustainable practices, offering exceptional quality at great value. With its unique terroir and growing international recognition, Le Marche is a wine region to watch for anyone craving authenticity and discovery, such as the Ca'Liptra, Kypra, 2022. Dense, nutty, and saline, everything that is needed to make Verdicchio shine in this region.
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