Native Wine Grapes of Italy [Hardcover]

Mountainous terrain, volcanic soils, innumerable microclimates, and an ancient culture of winemaking influenced by Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans make Italy the most diverse country in the world of wine. This diversity is reflected in the fact that Italy grows the largest number of native wine grapes known, amounting to more than a quarter of the worlds commercial wine grape types. Ian DAgata spent thirteen years interviewing producers, walking vineyards, studying available research, and tasting wines to create this authoritative guide to Italys native grapes and their wines. Writing with great enthusiasm and deep knowledge, DAgata discusses more than five hundred different native Italian grape varieties, from Aglianico to Zibibbo.

DAgata provides details about how wine grapes are identified and classified, what clones are available, which soils are ideal, and what genetic evidence tells us about a varietys parentage. He gives historical and anecdotal accounts of each grape variety and describes the characteristics of wines made from the grape. A regional list of varieties and a list of the best producers provide additional guidance. Comprehensive, thoroughly researched, and engaging, this book is the perfect companion for anyone who wants to know more about the vast enological treasures cultivated in Italy.

Ian DAgatais a Rome-based wine writer and educator who writes regularly for Stephen TanzersInternational Wine Cellarnewsletter and forDecantermagazine. He is the Scientific Advisor of Vinitaly International and is now also Scientific Director of the Vinitaly International? Academy, and is the author ofThe Ecco Guide to the Best Wines of Italy.

Preface

Map of Italys Wine Regions

Introduction: Understanding Native and Classifying Grape Varieties

Part I. Grape Varieties: What, Where, When, Why, and How
1. Ampelology: The Art and Science of Grape Variety Identification