From Aperitivo to Dessert, I have 10 Italian Summer Wine & Food Pairings.
I have always loved how, in Italy, enjoying wine is not just about the drink but also about the experience and the culture surrounding it. Italy is one of the most rich lands recognized by their culinary heritage. It offers an irresistible pairing of wine and cuisine, embodying summer’s essence. I am returning to Italy this summer, and I want to invite you to explore Italy’s finest summer wines with me. Each tells a unique story about its terroir and tradition. Get your passport and wine glasses, join me on a culinary experience, and transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed landscapes of Italy.
Prosecco, the quintessential Italian bubbly, is more than just a drink; it symbolizes celebration and everyday enjoyment. Its versatility shines through in various settings, making it the ideal summer wine for any food pairing. Whether you’re clinking glasses with friends during aperitivo hour, toasting to special occasions, or simply enjoying a warm afternoon outdoors, Valdo Prosecco‘s refreshing bubbles and crisp acidity add sparkle to any moment.
Pair a chilled glass with light appetizers, seafood, or creamy risotto for a delightful culinary experience. With its range of Marca Oro Brut (ideal for brunch and light appetizers) and the fruity Rosé (perfect for sunsets and seafood), Valdo Prosecco offers a sparkling option for every taste and occasion.
Venture into Tuscany, where the innovative winemaker Bibi Graetz crafts his unique Casamatta Bianco 2021. This captivating blend of Vermentino, Trebbiano, and Ansonica captures the essence of the Argentario coast with its zesty citrus and peach blossom aromas, pairing beautifully with grilled seafood and fresh salads.
In the picturesque Valle Isarco of Alto Adige, the historic Abbazia di Novacella continues its centuries-old winemaking tradition. Their Sylvaner 2023, a crisp and mineral-driven white wine, showcases the region’s cool climate and unique terroir, making it a perfect complement seafood to vegetable dishes and light pasta.
In the picturesque Valle Isarco of Alto Adige, the historic Abbazia di Novacella continues its centuries-old winemaking tradition. Their Sylvaner 2023, a crisp and mineral-driven white wine, showcases the region’s cool climate and unique terroir, making it a perfect complement seafood to vegetable dishes and light pasta.
Piedmont, a region renowned for its prestigious wines, is home to Bruno Giacosa’s exceptional single-vineyard Roero Arneis DOCG 2022. Crafted from the indigenous Arneis grape, this wine boasts a fresh and full-bodied palate with inviting lemon, pineapple, and peach aromas, perfect for summer salads or grilled fish.
The Bruno Giacosa Roero Arneis DOCG, Piemonte 2022, pairs also beautifully with a traditional Piedmontese Bagna Cauda, a warm dip of garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, served with fresh vegetables. The wine’s vibrant fruitiness complements the richness of the dip while its acidity cuts through the oil.
Southern Italy, with its volcanic soils, warm climate, and diverse landscapes, offers a treasure trove of unique wines and food pairings. From the mineral-rich whites of Campania, such as Casa Setaro’s Vesuvio Bianco DOP, to the bold reds of Sicily and Puglia, like Nero d’Avola and Primitivo, this region offers a diverse range of flavors and styles.
Casa Setaro’s Vesuvio Bianco DOP, a blend of Caprettone, Greco, and Fiano grapes, offers a complex and expressive character with minerality, citrus notes, and subtle herbal undertones. Its refreshing acidity and long finish make it a versatile companion for seafood, fresh cheeses, and light pasta dishes.
Sicily’s diverse landscape yields a range of wines, including delightful rosés like Planeta Rosé, with its lively palate and hints of meringue and peach, perfect for summer afternoons paired with charcuterie or light salads. Tornatore Etna Rosato, vinified as a white with a red grape Nerello Mascalese, offers a unique take on the classic Italian rosé and complements seafood dishes.
The Planeta family’s vineyards stretch across Sicily, from the sunny shores to the rolling hills. Their harvest kicked off with Syrah grapes on August 30th, followed closely by Nero d’Avola on September 3rd. This vibrant rosé is bursting with fresh flavors and a lingering hint of peach and meringue, perfect for a light summer snack or transitioning into a cozy autumn meal of roasted butternut squash.
Try it with: Seared scallops, summer charcuterie board, Caprese salad or Pizza Margarita.
The Varvaglione family in Puglia has crafted the 12 e Mezzo Chardonnay, a crisp and refreshing wine made from organically grown grapes. Its lower ABV makes it perfect for a relaxing day!
Let’s celebrate that the Varvaglione family is paying particular attention to growing organically and pairing this with an equally healthy, nothing-too-complicated dish using fresh ingredients that will pair with this Organic Grapes Chardonnay. I started by lightly boiling elbow macaroni until al dente. Then, I added diced fresh tomatoes, sweet corn kernels, torn basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to the macaroni. The combination was a delightful pairing with the Varvaglione 12 e Mezzo Puglia Organic Chardonnay.
On the other hand, it will also pair with the traditional Pugliese pasta or Orriechete, as Marzia Varvaglione, the fourth generation of the Varvaglione family, recommends: “The traditional Pugliese dish of Orriechette and broccoli rabe would make a wonderful pairing. For something lighter, even something as simple as a Caprese salad works with this bright style of chardonnay.”
One of the first Italian Masterclasses I joined was from the unpopular region of Abruzzo. This masterclass was a transformative experience, opening my eyes to the unique and flavorful wines Abruzzo produces. Seven years have passed since that class, and Abruzzo has held a special place in my heart. Now, I am thrilled to be able to visit this region and share its wine culture with you.
Abruzzo, celebrated for its Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, offers bold, fruity reds with depth and character. The Masciarelli family’s Mariana Cvetic is a prime example, boasting ripe black cherry and plum flavors with earthiness. This versatile red pairs beautifully with hearty pasta dishes, grilled meats, and even spicy cuisine.
If you have a sweet tooth please consider pairing it with Tiramisu, because the coffee and cocoa flavors in tiramisu complement the wine’s earthy notes.
Bonus Tip: If you’re having a casual get-together, this wine is approachable enough to please a crowd, even if they don’t usually drink red wine.
Raise a glass to the diversity and richness of Italian wine and food this summer! From sparkling Prosecco to bold reds and unique white blends, Italy’s wine regions offer a kaleidoscope of flavors and experiences. Discover your perfect pairings and let the taste of Italy transport you to sun-drenched vineyards and unforgettable culinary moments.
Orange: Northern Italy (e.g., Piedmont, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige)
Dark red: Central Italy (e.g., Tuscany, Umbria, Marche)
Purple: Southern Italy (e.g., Campania, Puglia, Sicily)
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
