Wine Trip to Italy, Part 2: From Tuscany to Lazio

Tuscany is what many people picture when they think of wine country—rolling hills, small towns, and vineyards around every bend. It’s home to some of Italy’s most well-known wines, like Chianti, Brunello, and Super Tuscan.

Try a glass of Chianti Classico with pecorino cheese or a Brunello with pasta and meat sauce. These wines are bold and balanced, great for dinners that stretch into the evening.

Umbria is right next to Tuscany but flies more under the radar. It’s a quieter region with big red wines, especially Sagrantino, which is known for its deep color and strong tannins.

A good Sagrantino pairs well with grilled meats or hearty stews. If you like bold wine with a little structure, Umbria is a great place to explore. If you would like some restaurant recommendations for Umbria, let me know. My clients were just there and loved the recommendations I gave them.

Marche sits between the mountains and the sea, and the wines reflect that mix. It’s best known for Verdicchio, a crisp white wine, but the reds, like Rosso Piceno, are also worth trying.

Verdicchio is a great match for seafood or roast chicken, while Rosso Piceno goes well with pork or tomato-based pasta. It’s an easy region to like if you enjoy simple, good food and wine.Add a gentle walking tour in Urbino to your wine trip to Italy itinerary.

Next up on our tour of the Italian wine regions is Emilia-Romagna.

This is a region known for its food, Parmesan cheese, prosciutto, balsamic vinegar, and the wines are made to go with it. Lambrusco, a sparkling red, is the standout here.

Try a dry Lambrusco with cured meats, rich pasta dishes, or even pizza. It’s fresh, a little fizzy, and much better than most people expect.My favorite city in this region is Bologna. If you go, you have to check out these food markets!

Last but not least for this round is Lazio.

Lazio is the region around Rome, and it’s been making wine for a long time. The most common wine here is Frascati, a light, easy-drinking white that’s often enjoyed with lunch or snacks. Don’t worry, though, if you aren’t a white wine fan, this region produces some great reds as well.

It pairs well with pasta, grilled vegetables, or fried foods like Roman-style artichokes. If you’re spending time in Rome, it’s a great wine to try while you’re there.