Overview

Explore the homeland of Chiantis, Barberas, Barolos, Pinot Grigios, and Astis in this engaging course on Italian wines.

Italy boasts one of the world’s most ancient and important traditions of winemaking, with a vibrant history that stretches back thousands of years. In The Everyday Guide to Wines of Italy, acclaimed Master of Wine Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan takes you on a delightful journey through Italy’s iconic wine regions. This course features interactive tastings, food pairing demonstrations, and valuable tips for both novices and experienced wine lovers.

Course Content

1. Wines from Julius Caesar’s Day to Today

Get an overview of Italy’s winemaking history, explore important grape varieties, and learn about pairing wine with food through the five S’s of tasting. (36 min)

2. Northeast Italy – Beloved Whites to Rich Reds

Visit the northeastern regions, sampling beloved light-bodied whites and deep reds, including Prosecco and Amarone, while discovering ideal food pairings. (38 min)

3. Northwest Italy – Sophisticated Wines

Explore wines from Piemonte, including Franciacorta and Barolo, and learn about aging techniques in a winery’s barrel room. (37 min)

4. Tuscan Stars – Chianti to Super Tuscans

Dive into Tuscany’s famous wines, tasting a Vermentino, Chianti Classico, and the controversial Super Tuscan. (35 min)

5. Central Italy – Secret Gems

Discover emerging wines from central Italy, like Orvieto and Sagrantino, and compare their unique subtleties. (31 min)

6. Southern Italy – Juicy Reds and Pizza Pairings

Conclude with robust southern Italian wines and see how they pair perfectly with pizza, tasting varieties like Nero d’Avola and Primitivo. (32 min)