Trying on the Italian Boot! A Guide to Italy’s Most Captivating Wine Roads
Even the most devoted armchair wine tourists, who prefer exploring the world of wine from the comfort of their home with a glass in hand and Travel & Living on screen, know that Italy’s map resembles a boot. And that boot is filled to the brim, like a well-poured glass, with incredible wineries and enogastronomic events. Just imagine – a country once called Oenotria, or “The Land of Wine,” by the Greeks now boasts 36 DOC and 76 DOCG appellations. So, if you belong to the more adventurous category of wine lovers, eager to meet winemakers in person and explore stunning landscapes, and decide to “try on” that boot for yourself, you’ll need a trusted guide – just like an outlet-shopping enthusiast needs a map – to navigate this vast Italian wine universe.
A young but already globally recognized project, Wine Travel Awards serves as the perfect guide for navigating Italy’s rich wine landscape. Bringing together the most fascinating wineries from 46 countries, wine museums, educational institutions, guides, ambassadors, and influencers dedicated to the world of wine, this platform is an essential resource for any wine traveller.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy this year – welcome! Get acquainted with the most hospitable, talented, and outstanding nominees, and choose who to visit, whose expert advice to follow, or where to book a guided tasting or winery tour. Each nominee has been carefully selected by an experienced team of Drinks+ wine journalists, the media group that founded this unique award and continues to build a progressive global wine community every year – one that can be invaluable for your journey. By the way, voting is now open! Join our community by supporting your favourites with a like and following us on social media.
Now, let’s explore our top Italian wine destinations – from north to south, from the toe to the heel of the boot!
The Gem of Veneto – Valpolicella
Northern Italy, particularly the Veneto region, is a land of gentle valleys, rolling hills, and architectural masterpieces – from elegant temples adorned with Titian and Giotto frescoes to grand palaces and aristocratic villas (I personally admire Palladio’s works the most).
If you find yourself in northern Italy, you’ll likely explore renowned wine regions producing Prosecco, Franciacorta, and Soave. However, with so much to experience, let’s focus on a place famous for its legendary Amarone, more precisely Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG – a world-renowned, intensely beautiful wine made from dried grapes using the ancient appassimento method. Every Valpolicella winery also boasts classics such as Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG, Valpolicella Ripasso DOC, and Valpolicella DOC. Recently, local winemakers – supported by their Consortium, which is nominated for “Region of the Year” – have started producing Spumante and other sparkling wines, making tastings in the region even more exciting. So, where should you go? The choice is yours! We, of course, recommend visiting them all.
Our Recommendations:
One of Valpolicella’s greatest treasures is its exceptional hospitality. Many wineries here offer not just wine tastings, but also olive oil tastings, unforgettable local cuisine, and dreamy accommodations. Imagine an evening spent savoring wine by candlelight, followed by a morning awakening to the chirping of birds, realizing you’ve slept at a winery – could there be a more immersive experience?
Our Recommendations:
These two boutique hotels are directly connected to the 100-year-old Fasoli Gino Winery, offering exceptional wine, stunning design, and service fit for royalty.
Speaking of monarchs, some wineries offer the privilege of staying in aristocratic villas that feel more like palaces. Here are a few exceptional estates where you can immerse yourself in history, luxury, and world-class wine:
Our Next Nominee – one of Valpolicella’s top wineries, renowned not only for its exceptional wines but also for its charming boutique hotel. With limited availability, securing a reservation here isn’t easy – so be sure to book in advance!
Venissa – Golden Wine Amidst the Blue
Just 30 minutes from Venice, Venissa Estate may not have centuries of history, but it belongs to a renowned dynasty of Italian winemakers – Gianluca Bisol and his son Matteo. And this place is a must-visit! First, the winemakers have revived the once-lost ancient Dorona grape variety, producing an exquisite golden wine you won’t find anywhere else.
Second, the location is unbeatable – Venissa sits on the charming island of Mazzorbo, easily reachable by vaporetto from Venice and connected by a small bridge to Burano, famous for its vibrant houses and lace museum. And third, Venissa offers the full experience – a restaurant, an osteria, a tasting room, and stylish modern accommodations, making it the perfect retreat for wine lovers.
A Tasting with a Dive
Leaving history aside (though it’s hard to ignore that Elba was Napoleon’s place of exile), we invite you to shift westward and explore this fascinating island. Napoleon famously said, “Able was I ere I saw Elba,” but we assure you – what you’ll see here is truly one of a kind. An incredible experience awaits at Arrighi Winery, located in Porto Azzurro, within the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
In 2019, local winemaker Antonio Arrighi introduced the world to Nesos, an “underwater wine” aged in the depths of the sea.
Those lucky enough to taste this vino marino claim its organoleptic properties are unlike anything ever created. And no wonder – the method dates back over 2,000 years!
That Sweet Word – Asti!
Well, Asti wines aren’t actually that sweet! While they are naturally “sweet” by technical definition, they remain incredibly drinkable thanks to their harmonious acidity, making them as versatile for food pairing as some Rieslings. These wines are perfect as an aperitif and pair beautifully with fish, seafood, and poultry dishes. With their traditionally low alcohol content (7.5%–9.5%), it’s no wonder Asti wines inspire envy even among their prestigious Nebbiolo-producing neighbors – the legendary Barolo and Barbaresco. But for a curious wine traveler, this contrast – from powerful reds to light, aromatic Moscatos – is yet another reason to explore the region.
Let’s set our sights on Piedmont, nominated by Consorzio Asti DOCG for Region of the Year!
The Land of Moscato Bianco
The Asti DOCG designation comes from Moscato Bianco, cultivated in 51 towns across the provinces of Asti, Alessandria, and Cuneo. The two key wines of this appellation – Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti – boast an unmistakable aromatic profile. As you wander through Asti’s picturesque vineyards, don’t be surprised if the intoxicating Muscat aroma follows you.
There’s a reason for that:
- Italy has the second-largest Muscat vine plantings in the world (after the USA, with Austria in third place). Even during flowering, grape clusters release an intense aroma, which lingers in the glass once the wine is poured.
- The Muscat aroma is naturally present in many plants, including jasmine, roses, strawberries, lychee, mint, and basil, all thanks to a common aromatic compound – linalool.
In short, Muscat rules this region, and its legacy is celebrated through the Moscato Wine Route, a must-visit on any itinerary!
Don’t miss the wineries located in the stunning Canelli area, home to natural underground wine cellars – a unique setting for aging these world-famous wines.
These territories, along with the vineyards of Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato, have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A special highlight on our route goes to wineries with museums, where history and winemaking traditions come to life:
However, our list of recommendations covers every corner of the Asti DOCG region. Explore the wineries’ offerings – and enjoy the experience!
Our Recommendations:
- Dogliotti 1870
- Tre Secoli
- CADGAL
- Toso S.P.A.
- Azienda BERSANO
- Forteto della Luja Farming Company
- Alice Bel Colle
- Batasiolo
- Cocchi
- Fontanafredda Wines
- Cuvage Winery
- MONGIOIA
- Torelli
- Azienda Agricola Teresa Soria di Emanuele Contino
- Cascina Castlèt
- Azienda Agricola Cavallero
- Azienda BAVA
- Torre dei Contini
- Caudrina Winery
- Banfi (Piemonte)
- Cantine Capetta
- Gruppo Araldica Castelvero
Discovering Marche
A year ago, we made an exciting discovery – Grande Vino Rosso from the Marche region. Now, we highly recommend this hidden gem to every wine lover. Located in the heart of central Italy, along the Adriatic coast, Marche remains less famous than its neighbors, Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.
Yet, in medieval times, these lands were part of the Papal States, and even today, Marche wines are served at official receptions at the Vatican. In the WTA community, Marche is proudly represented by Tenuta Manoylo, a young yet award-winning winery recognized at top international competitions. A visit here will be a true discovery!
At the Foot of the Volcano
Heading south along the Italian boot and crossing to the western coast near Mount Vesuvius, you’ll find yourself in Salerno Province. Here, we highly recommend a visit to San Salvatore Winery, located in the heart of Cilento National Park.
The breathtaking nature of this region feels like paradise, and the winery’s owner sees it as his duty to honor and preserve it. Here, vines are not just cultivated – they are nurtured, with minimal intervention to protect the land. This stop marks the perfect finale to our incredible journey.
Stock up on wines from the wineries you visit and, after San Salvatore, take a stroll along Italy’s most stunning coastline – the Amalfi Coast. We envy you in the best way possible!
P.S. Anyone who is planning a trip or is interested in Italian wines can contact competent people for advice:
– about the nuances of winemaking and viticulture
– for advice and information
– to book excursions
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