Italian estates have traditionally played it safe by investing in Chardonnay and Merlot rather than risk it with native grapes. But home-grown varieties are fighting back, writes RICHARD BAUDAINS
Never a country to rest on its laurels, Italy continues to push the boundaries of innovation and excellence. RICHARD BAUDAINS introduces 25 estates – some new, others transformed – that every Italian wine lover should discover.
RICHARD BAUDAINS picks out Italy's 10 most exciting producers of the moment, and explains why they're making headlines
The Barbera d'Asti and Barbera del Monferrato DOCs have both shown explosive growth over the last decade. RICHARD BAUDAINS introduces the new and far more drinkable 'Super-Barberas'
A number of Valpolicellan producers are going down the Super Tuscan route, stepping outside the DOC appellation. Richard Baudains charts the different styles of premium wines being made
The future is uncertain for Soave. Workmanlike wines are no longer good enough and the region needs to reinvent itself as a quality wine producer. RICHARD BAUDIANS reports
With the concept of 'terroir' creeping into Tuscany, Panzano would be a top contender for grand cru status, says Richard Baudains
Is there such a thing as 'premium' Prosecco? And where do you have to look? RICHARD BAUDAINS answers questions often asked about this Italian fizz.
Italy recently passed laws to upgrade its Strade del Vino wine tourism routes – the first to get approval is in Tuscany at Rufina and Pomino. RICHARD BAUDAINS loaded the kids into the back of the car and went out on the road
Italy recently passed laws to upgrade its Strade del Vino wine tourism routes – the first to get approval is in Tuscany at Rufina and Pomino. RICHARD BAUDAINS loaded the kids into the back of the car and went out on the road
Modern and exciting, the darlings of the 1980s restaurant scene, but how are the wines of Friuli faring now? RICHARD BAUDAINS finds them as dynamic as ever
Although ahead of its contemporaries in terms of history and legislation, Carmignano largely missed out on the renaissance of Tuscan winemaking. However, great changes are afoot and lost ground is rapidly being made up, Richard Baudains discovers.
Overproduction and decling quality caused Frascati's reputation to take a nose-dive. Now, however, the classic Roman white looks set for a revival. RICHARD BAUDAINS reports
