Italian Wine Month 6-pack Sampler #1 - Off The Beaten Path Whites

There's so much more to Italian White Wines than Pinot Grigio, Prosecco, Verdicchio and Soave.  There are literally hundreds of different grape varietals that thrive in Italy and have carved out homes in various regions across Italy.  This 6 pack of delicious flavorful and aromatic whites are perfect for fall and will get you out of the Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio rut!

Vermentino: Argiolas "Meri" (Sardenia) - Vermentino is the flagship white grape of Sardinia. It thrives in the island's warm, sunny, and windy Mediterranean climate. Wines made from this grape are celebrated for their bright acidity, fresh minerality, and aromatic qualities that often carry a hint of the "macchia" (the mix of wild herbs like rosemary and thyme that scents the island's air).  This wine offers a vibrant and aromatic start to the flight. Expect notes of white flowers, ripe pear, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs. It has a rounded texture and a refreshing, clean finish.

Grillo: Il Meridione (Sicily) - Grillo is a resilient white grape indigenous to Sicily, perfectly adapted to the island’s hot, arid climate. For centuries, its primary role was as a key component in the production of Marsala, the island's famous fortified wine. However, in recent decades, winemakers have rediscovered its potential for producing delicious, aromatic, and versatile dry white wines. A vibrant and appealing wine that is a perfect example of a modern, dry Sicilian Grillo. It has a fragrant, honeyed nose with notes of ripe stone fruit, ginger, and white flowers. On the palate, it is fresh and appealing, with a core of sun-dried citrus and savory notes, a creamy texture, and a zesty, saline acidity that provides a long, clean finish.

Falanghina: Terre di Valter (Campania) - Falanghina is a truly ancient grape, believed to have been cultivated by the ancient Greeks and Romans in the volcanic soils of Campania. It was nearly forgotten until a modern revival in the late 20th century transformed it into one of Italy's most celebrated white wines. Terre di Valter is a small, family-owned and run estate dedicated to showcasing the indigenous grapes of Campania with a focus on quality over quantity. A vibrant and expressive wine that perfectly showcases the modern Falanghina style. It opens with an inviting bouquet of white peach, nectarine, and a hint of fresh herbs. On the palate, it is lively and well-balanced, with a core of crisp green apple and citrus that is beautifully framed by a soft, creamy texture. The finish is long and clean, with a distinctive mineral note that reminds you of the volcanic soils where the grapes are grown.

Greco di Tufo: Benito Ferrara 'Vigna Cicogna' (Campania) - Greco di Tufo is one of Southern Italy's most noble white grapes. Cultivated for over 2,000 years, it takes its name from the volcanic soils of the small, specific DOCG zone in the Avellino province. What distinguishes Greco is its incredible structure and complexity. Unlike many Italian whites, it is known for a profound mineral character, high acidity, and a full-bodied texture that allows it to age beautifully. It is often compared to top-tier white Burgundy for its richness and ability to develop savory, honeyed notes over time. Greco di Tufo is one of Southern Italy's most noble white grapes. Cultivated for over 2,000 years, it takes its name from the volcanic soils of the small, specific DOCG zone in the Avellino province. What distinguishes Greco is its incredible structure and complexity. Unlike many Italian whites, it is known for a profound mineral character, high acidity, and a full-bodied texture that allows it to age beautifully. It is often compared to top-tier white Burgundy for its richness and ability to develop savory, honeyed notes over time.
A powerful and deeply structured wine that opens with an intense bouquet of crushed stone, smoky minerality, and ripe stone fruit like apricot and yellow peach. On the palate, it is full-bodied and rich, with a vibrant acidity that provides great length and tension. The finish is long and savory, often showing hints of almond and saline notes that evolve beautifully with a bit of air.

Fiano: Ciro Picariello Fiano Irpinia (Campania) - Fiano is celebrated for its ability to produce rich, complex, and age-worthy wines that balance a deep, nutty character with a vibrant, mineral-driven acidity. While it is grown in other parts of Southern Italy, it finds its true home in the high-altitude, volcanic hills of Irpinia.  Ciro Picariello is a minimalist winemaker with a cult following. He and his wife, Rita, have a deep respect for their terroir and a "hands-off" approach in the cellar. A wine of incredible purity and focus. This Fiano is not about overt fruit but rather a precise, mineral-driven profile with notes of green apple, citrus peel, and a racy, saline acidity. It has a beautiful tension and a long, savory finish.

Friulano: Ronchi Friulano (Friuli-Venezia) - Once known as Tocai Friulano, this noble white grape is the signature of Italy’s Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. It is celebrated for its ability to produce wines that are both aromatic and textural. Unlike the crisp, lean profile of Pinot Grigio, Friulano offers a more generous, medium-bodied experience. Its classic hallmark is a distinct, pleasant bitter almond note on the finish, making it a truly unique and memorable wine that is very food-friendly.  A beautiful and expressive wine that perfectly concludes your flight. It opens with an inviting bouquet of ripe pear, yellow apple, and wild meadow flowers, with a touch of fresh herbs. On the palate, it has a wonderfully soft and round texture that is supported by a subtle minerality. The finish is what truly sets it apart, with a savory, lasting note of almond and hazelnut that is both captivating and delicious.