Overhead view of five glasses holding different styles of wine, from pale white and rosé to deep red and amber

Italy Red Blend

Winemaking

The Grape

There are 21 important red grape varieties used to make wine in Italy. The most important of these is the indigenous Sangiovese, both for the quality of wine it produces and for how widespread it is grown throughout the country. While it is especially important in Tuscany, it is now the most planted red variety in Italy's vineyards. Other notable native Italian varieties include Barbera, Nebbiolo and Aglianico. Nowadays Italian vintners also blend in grapes native to France, most notably Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah.

A glass of red wine beside a board of cured meats, cheese and olives

The Wines

Red blend wines in Italy are made in diverse styles depending upon the winemakers and the particular blend of grapes. Today’s modern wines are typically big and bold with firm tannins and good structure. Super Tuscans tend to be the fruitiest with flavours and aromas of fresh raspberries and blackberries, while also incorporating earthy and leathery notes. Red Blend wines are often aged in oak so their fruit flavours are supported by subtle hints of smoke and vanilla.

The Occasions

Modern Italian style red blends, like most Italian wines, are extremely food-friendly and pair well with a wide range of foods. An antipasto platter with meats and rich hard cheeses will stand up to the flavours of these medium to full-bodied wines. Your best bet is to pair your Italian red blend with meat as many typical Italian dishes feature braised beef and veal.