Italian White Wines: What You Need To Know

Italian white wines have long been celebrated for their exceptional quality and diversity. From the vibrant coastal regions of Liguria and Campania to the picturesque vineyards of Tuscany and Alto Adige, Italy offers a wealth of options for white wine enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, this article will guide you through the world of Italian white wines, providing valuable insights and tips to enhance your wine-tasting experience.

Most famous regions for Italian White Wine

Italy boasts several renowned regions that are known for producing exceptional white wines thanks to diverse terroirs and unique microclimates, which contribute to the formation of distinct regional characters in its wines. In this section, we will provide you with an overview of the regions that produce Italian white wines, highlighting their geographical features and the grape varieties that thrive in each area.

Let's explore some of the most famous regions from South to North Italy and the reasons why they are so important:

Italian white wines region #1: Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is not only celebrated for its stunning landscapes but also for its diverse and vibrant white wines. The island's sunny climate, influenced by the surrounding sea, provides optimal conditions for cultivating a wide range of white grape varieties.

Location: Situated in the southern part of Italy, Sicily's warm and sunny climate, along with its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, creates an ideal environment for viticulture.

Most important white grapes: Sicily boasts a rich assortment of white grape varieties, each contributing to the distinct character of its wines. Notable varieties (still not very well known as they should) include Grillo, Catarratto, Inzolia, and Carricante. These grapes thrive in Sicily's diverse terroirs, from coastal plains to volcanic slopes.

Most important white wines:

1. Grillo - A signature Sicilian white wine, Grillo offers a refreshing and crisp profile with citrusy notes, making it a popular choice for seafood pairings.
2. Catarratto - Widely planted in Sicily, Catarratto wines range from light and easy-drinking to more complex and textured, showcasing orchard fruit flavors and a zesty acidity.
3. Inzolia - Known for its aromatic qualities, Inzolia produces fresh white wines with floral and fruity notes, often featuring a medium-bodied and well-balanced palate.
4. Carricante - Primarily grown on the slopes of Mount Etna, Carricante yields elegant and mineral-driven white wines with citrus undertones and a distinctive volcanic influence.

A special thing: Sicily's white wines capture the island's unique terroir, including those produced on the slopes of Mount Etna, where volcanic soils impart a mineral depth to the wines. Additionally, Sicilian winemakers are increasingly exploring natural winemaking practices, contributing to the island's reputation for innovation that we bet will spread internationally.

Italian White Wines region #2: Sardinia

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, offers a diverse range of white wines that reflect the island's rich cultural heritage and diverse terroirs. The Vermentino, with its crisp acidity and vibrant citrus flavors, is a signature white wine from Sardinia. Moreover, this region also produces unique native varieties such as Nuragus and Malvasia di Sardegna, which delight with their distinctive character, contributing to the production of white wines with a distinct character – a true reflection of Sardinia's cultural richness.

Location: Situated in the middle of the Mediterranean, Sardinia's vineyards benefit from a maritime climate along the coasts and varied elevations in the mountainous interior, creating diverse microclimates.

Most important white grapes: Sardinia cultivates both indigenous and international white grape varieties, with a focus on those that thrive in the island's terroir. Notable white grape varieties include Vermentino, Nuragus, Malvasia di Sardegna and Vernaccia di Oristano.

Most important white wines from Sardinia include:

1. Vermentino - Considered the flagship white grape of Sardinia, Vermentino produces white wines with a crisp acidity, citrus and floral aromas, and a distinctive minerality, reflecting the island's coastal influence.
2. Nuragus - An indigenous Sardinian grape, Nuragus contributes to white wines with a light and delicate profile, showcasing floral and fruity notes, making it an easy-drinking and refreshing choice.
3. Malvasia di Bosa - Sardinia's Malvasia wines exhibit a range of styles, from dry to sweet, with floral aromas, stone fruit flavors, and a textured palate, offering a versatile and expressive wine experience.
4. Vernaccia di Oristano - While Vernaccia is more commonly associated with central Italy, Sardinia has its own version. Vernaccia di Oristano is a white wine with oxidative qualities, displaying nutty and caramelized notes.

A special thing: Sardinian white wines often capture the island's spirit, reflecting both its maritime heritage and rugged landscapes. The Vermentino, in particular, stands out for its ability to express the coastal character and the unique identity of Sardinia.

Whether enjoying the refreshing Vermentino, the delicate Nuragus, the expressive Malvasia, or the unique Vernaccia di Oristano, Sardinia's white wines offer a journey through the island's diverse terroirs and a taste of its rich cultural heritage.

Italian White Wines region #3: Campania

Campania, located in southern Italy, is known for its ancient vineyards and volcanic soils. The region's white wines are characterized by their vibrant acidity and distinct mineral notes. The history of winemaking in Campania dates back thousands of years, with evidence of grape cultivation and wine production dating back to ancient times. The region's volcanic soils, which are rich in minerals, contribute to the unique characteristics of Campania's white wines. The volcanic activity in the area has created a fertile environment for grapevines to thrive, resulting in wines with a distinct terroir.

Location: Situated in southern Italy, Campania's vineyards extend from the coastal areas along the Tyrrhenian Sea to the inland hills and volcanic slopes, creating a varied terroir that influences the region's white wine production.

Most important white grapes: Campania is home to several indigenous grape varieties that are used in the production of white wines. In addition to Greco di Tufo, other notable grape varieties include Fiano, Falanghina, and Coda di Volpe. Each grape variety brings its own unique flavors and aromas to the wines, adding to the diversity of Campania's white wine offerings.

Most important white wines:

1. Fiano di Avellino - Crafted from the Fiano grape, Fiano di Avellino is a distinguished white wine with a golden hue, offering complex aromas of citrus, honey, and nuts, and a well-structured, mineral-driven palate.
2. Greco di Tufo - One of the most famous white wines from Campania is the Greco di Tufo, which displays a delightful combination of floral aromas and citrus flavors. Greco di Tufo, one of the standout white wines from Campania, is made primarily from the Greco grape variety. The grapes are grown on volcanic soils which impart their distinctive character to the wine. Greco di Tufo is known for its crisp acidity, which provides a refreshing counterbalance to its floral and citrus notes. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes, from seafood to poultry.
3. Falanghina - Thriving in the volcanic soils of Campania, Falanghina produces white wines with a crisp acidity, tropical fruit aromas, and a lively, refreshing character.
4. Coda di Volpe - Known for its aromatic qualities, Coda di Volpe wines exhibit floral and citrus notes, creating a vibrant and expressive profile.

A special thing: Campania's white wines often bear the influence of the region's volcanic soils, adding a unique mineral character to the wines. The historic city of Pompeii, nestled within Campania, has provided archaeological evidence of ancient winemaking practices, highlighting the longstanding tradition of viticulture in the region.

Italian white wines region #4: Tuscany

Tuscany, renowned for its red wines, also produces a range of captivating white wines that embody the region's rich history and commitment to winemaking tradition. The diverse landscapes, from coastal areas to rolling hills, contribute to the unique terroirs that shape Tuscany's white wine offerings.

Location: Located in central Italy, Tuscany's landscapes include picturesque hills, coastal plains, and iconic vineyards, creating varied microclimates that influence the character of its white wines.

Most important white grapes: While Tuscany is widely associated with red grape varieties like Sangiovese, the region cultivates several white grape varieties. Notable white grapes include Vernaccia, Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Vermentino, each contributing to Tuscany's white wine portfolio.

Most important white wines:

1. Vernaccia di San Gimignano - Tuscany's flagship white wine, Vernaccia is known for its crisp acidity, floral aromas, and a characteristic almond finish. It is one of Italy's first wines to receive DOCG status.
2. Trebbiano Toscano - Commonly used in white wine blends, Trebbiano Toscano contributes to wines with a fresh and light profile, often featuring citrus notes and a bright acidity.
3. Vermentino - Thriving in coastal areas, Vermentino produces white wines with a lively acidity, citrus flavors, and a refreshing minerality, making it a popular choice for Tuscany's coastal vineyards.

A special thing: Tuscany's white wines often reflect the region's focus on quality and expression of terroir. The coastal influence on wines like Vermentino adds a unique maritime character, while Vernaccia di San Gimignano, with its historic significance, showcases the depth and complexity achievable in Tuscan white wines.

Italian white wines region #5: Veneto

Located in northeastern Italy, Veneto is a region in northern Italy, is not only known for its iconic red wines but also for a diverse and impressive array of white wines. The region's diverse terroirs, including the renowned areas of Soave, contribute to the production of distinct white wines that showcase Veneto's winemaking heritage.

Location: Located in the northeastern part of Italy, Veneto's varied landscapes, from the Adriatic coast to the Alpine foothills, create a mosaic of microclimates ideal for white wine cultivation.

Most important white grapes: Veneto is home to several key white grape varieties that thrive in its different subregions. Garganega, Trebbiano di Soave, and Glera are among the notable grapes used to produce a variety of white wines.

Most important white wines:

1. Soave - Crafted primarily from the Garganega grape, Soave is a renowned white wine with a floral bouquet, crisp acidity, and flavors ranging from citrus to almond.
2. Pinot Grigio - Veneto produces vibrant and refreshing Pinot Grigio, characterized by its citrus and green apple notes, making it a popular choice for easy-drinking white wines.
3. Lugana - Produced around Lake Garda, Lugana is made primarily from Trebbiano di Soave grapes, resulting in elegant and well-structured white wines with floral and peachy nuances.

A special thing: Veneto's white wines are special thanks to their diverse character influenced by various soils, including volcanic ones. The region's terroir encompasses a range of soil types, from volcanic soils to limestone and clay, adding distinct mineral nuances to the white wines. This geological diversity contributes to the complexity and individuality of Veneto's white wine offerings, providing wine enthusiasts with a fascinating exploration of the region's diverse terroirs and the influence of its unique geological makeup.

Italian white wines region #6: Friuli Venezia Giulia

Situated in the northeastern part of Italy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is renowned for its diverse range of white wines. The region benefits from a combination of warm Mediterranean and cool Alpine climates, creating a perfect environment for growing grapes.

Location: Nestled in the northeast of Italy, the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia is a hidden gem for white wine enthusiasts. Its proximity to the Adriatic Sea and its unique microclimates contribute to the production of exceptional white wines. Known for their complexity and aromatic intensity, wines like Friulano and Ribolla Gialla capture the essence of this captivating region. Friuli-Venezia Giulia produces refreshing white wines with vibrant acidity and complex flavors, including Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Friulano.

Most important white grapes: Friuli Venezia Giulia is home to a variety of white grape varieties that thrive in its microclimates. Notable white grape varieties include Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Ribolla Gialla. Each grape brings its own character, contributing to the diversity of the region's white wines.

Most important white wines:

1. Friulano - A distinctive white wine crafted from the Friulano grape, known for its almond notes, floral aromas, and a medium to full-bodied profile.
2. Pinot Grigio - Friuli Venezia Giulia produces some of Italy's finest Pinot Grigio, offering a crisp and refreshing wine with citrusy and pear flavors.
3. Sauvignon Blanc - The region's Sauvignon Blanc wines are celebrated for their vibrant acidity, tropical fruit notes, and herbaceous undertones.
4. Ribolla Gialla - An indigenous grape variety, Ribolla Gialla produces white wines with a lively acidity, citrusy flavors, and a distinct minerality.

A special thing: Friuli Venezia Giulia is known for its orange wines, made from white grape varieties that undergo prolonged contact with the skins. This winemaking technique, popularized especially by Josko Gravner, is one of the most significant wine experiments of the last 50 years, capable of producing wines with complex and unique flavors.

Italian white wines region #7: Liguria

Liguria, located along the enchanting Italian Riviera, is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes and picturesque vineyards perched on terraced hillsides. The region produces unique white wines, such as Pigato and Vermentino, which showcase the maritime influences and sun-kissed terroir. With their lively acidity and delicate fruit notes, Ligurian white wines transport the senses to this captivating seaside region.

Location: Liguria is situated along the Italian Riviera, bordered by the Ligurian Sea to the south and the Maritime Alps to the north. The region's vineyards often cling to steep hillsides, creating a dramatic backdrop for wine cultivation.

Most important white grapes: Liguria focuses on grape varieties that thrive in its coastal terroir. Notable white grape varieties include Vermentino, Pigato, Bosco, and Albarola, each contributing to the region's diverse white wine offerings.

Most important white wines:

1. Vermentino - Ligurian Vermentino produces white wines with a crisp acidity, citrus and green apple notes, and a distinct minerality, capturing the coastal influences and the bright character of the Mediterranean.
2. Pigato - Pigato wines, often associated with the western part of Liguria, showcase a fuller body, floral aromas, and flavors of ripe stone fruits, providing a unique expression of the region's terroir.
3. Bosco - Indigenous to Liguria, Bosco contributes to white wines with a lively acidity, floral and herbal notes, and a refreshing profile, making it a delightful and distinctive choice for white wine enthusiasts.
4. Albarola - Another local grape, Albarola, is used to produce Ligurian white wines with a medium body, citrus and orchard fruit flavors, and a vibrant acidity, offering a balance of freshness and complexity.

A special thing: The terraces on which the grapes in Liguria grow are unique: cultivating them means practicing heroic viticulture, extremely laborious, as all the work is done manually.

Italian white wines region #8: Piedmont

Located in the northwest of Italy, Piedmont is very important for its red wines but for its whites as well. white wines made from the Arneis grape. The region's unique microclimate and hilly terrain provide ideal conditions for growing this grape variety. The resulting wines are known for their crisp acidity, delicate floral aromas, and flavors of pear and apple. The region boasts a noteworthy collection of white wines that showcase the region's winemaking prowess. The hilly terrain and favorable climate contribute to the cultivation of diverse grape varieties, resulting in white wines that exhibit elegance, freshness, and unique flavors.

Location: Situated in the northwest of Italy, Piedmont's picturesque landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for vineyards dedicated to white wine production.

Most important white grapes: While Nebbiolo dominates the red wine scene, Piedmont embraces a variety of white grape varieties. The region's prominent white grapes include Moscato, Arneis, Cortese, and Favorita. These grapes contribute to the creation of white wines with distinct characteristics, ranging from aromatic sweetness to crisp acidity.

Most important white wines:

1. Moscato d'Asti - A renowned sweet and sparkling white wine crafted from Moscato grapes, offering floral and fruity aromas with a light and effervescent palate.
2. Gavi (Cortese di Gavi) - An elegant and mineral-driven white wine made from the Cortese grape, Gavi showcases citrusy notes, a crisp acidity, and a refined structure.
3. Roero Arneis - Arneis grapes produce this dry and aromatic white wine, known for its floral bouquet, peachy flavors, and a vibrant, refreshing character.
4. Langhe Favorita - Favorita grapes contribute to this lively and crisp white wine, featuring bright acidity, green apple notes, and a delightful, easy-drinking profile.
5. Timorasso - Timorasso is a white grape variety indigenous to the Piedmont region in northwest Italy. Historically, it faced decline but has been truly revived in recent years. Timorasso wines are celebrated for their complex flavor profile, featuring ripe stone fruits, citrus, honey, and hints of almonds. These wines exhibit a distinctive minerality, good acidity, and an aging potential that contributes to their richness and depth. The revival of Timorasso reflects a broader movement in Italy to preserve and rediscover unique indigenous grape varieties.

A special thing: Piedmontese white wines, like their red counterparts, reflect the region's commitment to high quality winemaking. The unique terroir, combined with the expertise of local winemakers, results in white wines that capture the essence of Piedmont.

Italian White Wines region #9: Alto Adige

Trentino Alto Adige is a land of breathtaking beauty and alpine landscapes. Nestled in the heart of the Dolomite Mountains, this region is a paradise for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. With its picturesque vineyards and charming villages, it offers a truly unique experience for winelovers seeking to explore the best Italian white wines.

Location: Trentino-Alto Adige, located in the northernmost part of Italy, is a region celebrated for its picturesque Alpine landscapes and exceptional white wines. The confluence of Italian and Austrian influences, along with diverse microclimates, contributes to the production of distinctive and high-quality white wines. Trentino-Alto Adige is characterized by stunning mountain scenery and a range of elevations that create various microclimates ideal for white wine cultivation.

Most important white grapes: The grapes grown in this region benefit from the wide temperature range between day and night, allowing them to develop a unique balance of acidity and ripeness.

The region is home to a mix of indigenous and international white grape varieties, each thriving in specific subzones. Notable white grape varieties include Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Müller-Thurgau, and Kerner.

Most important white wines:

1. Pinot Grigio - Trentino-Alto Adige is renowned for producing exceptional Pinot Grigio, characterized by crisp acidity, citrus notes, and a subtle minerality, it’s celebrated for its crispness and vibrant fruit flavors.
2. Gewürztraminer - This aromatic white wine, made from the Gewürztraminer grape, highly regarded for its aromatic qualities and exhibits intense floral and spice aromas, a lush palate, and a lingering finish, showcasing the region's commitment to expressive winemaking.
3. Müller-Thurgau - Known for its fresh and fruity profile, Müller-Thurgau wines from Trentino-Alto Adige often feature flavors of green apple, pear, and a vibrant acidity, making them approachable and versatile.
4. Kerner - A cross between Riesling and Trollinger, Kerner produces white wines with a crisp acidity, floral aromas, and citrusy flavors, embodying the region's dedication to both tradition and innovation.

In addition to Gewürztraminer and Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige is also home to other white grape varieties, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Müller-Thurgau. Each of these grapes brings its own unique characteristics to the wines produced in this region, adding to the diversity and complexity of Alto Adige's white wine offerings.

A special thing: The alpine climate of Trentino-Alto Adige imparts a unique freshness and elegance to the white wines. The region's commitment to sustainability and organic practices further emphasizes the quality and authenticity of its wines.

Italian White wines you need to know

Now that we have explored some of the most famous regions, let's dive deeper and discover the Italian white wines that deserve a place on your wine rack. From the refreshing Pinot Biancos of Friuli Venezia Giulia to the floral and aromatic Moscatos of Piedmont, Italy offers a wide array of white wines to suit every palate.

Italian white wines encompass a vast spectrum of styles, ranging from light and refreshing to rich and complex. Understanding the key characteristics of Italian white wines can help you appreciate their nuances and make informed choices when selecting wines for different occasions.

Roero Arneis DOCG

Description: Arneis, a white grape variety, produces crisp and floral wines with notes of pear and almond. Roero Arneis DOCG, from the Piedmont region, is well-regarded for its elegance and minerality.

Sannio Coda di Volpe DOC

Description: Coda di Volpe, meaning "tail of the fox," yields aromatic and fresh wines. Sannio DOC, in Campania, produces a vibrant expression with hints of citrus and herbs.

Falanghina del Sannio DOC

Description: Falanghina, native to Campania, results in wines with bright acidity and tropical fruit flavors. Falanghina del Sannio DOC showcases a lively character with citrus and floral notes.

Fiano di Avellino DOCG

Description: Fiano, cultivated in the volcanic soils of Campania, produces rich and full-bodied wines. Fiano di Avellino DOCG is known for its complexity, featuring honeyed aromas and a vibrant acidity.

Collio Friulano DOC

Description: Friulano, hailing from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, delivers a textured and aromatic experience. Collio Friulano DOC showcases a harmonious blend of floral and almond notes.

Contea di Sclafani Catarratto DOC

Description: Gataratto, a local Sicilian grape, contributes to fresh and citrusy wines. Contea di Sclafani DOC emphasizes Gataratto's crisp acidity and herbal nuances.

Gavi DOCG

Description: Gavi, produced from the Cortese grape in Piedmont, is renowned for its refreshing and mineral-driven profile. Gavi DOCG offers crisp apple and citrus notes.

Alto Adige Gewürztraminer DOC

Description: Gewürztraminer, grown in the Alpine vineyards of Alto Adige, yields aromatic wines with lychee and rose petal notes. The DOC showcases the grape's expressive and spicy characteristics.

Greco di Tufo DOCG

Description: Greco, cultivated in the volcanic soils of Campania, produces wines with a distinct minerality. Greco di Tufo DOCG is known for its richness, featuring peach and herbal undertones.

Inzolia Sicilia IGT

Description: Inzolia, a Sicilian grape, results in aromatic and medium-bodied wines. Sicilia DOC Inzolia exhibits floral and citrus notes, providing a pleasant and versatile drinking experience.

Langhe Favorita DOC

Description: Favorita, a grape native to Piedmont, crafts light and crisp wines. Langhe DOC Favorita expresses a lively character with green apple and floral nuances.

Malvasia di Bosa DOC

Description: Malvasia, cultivated in Sardinia, contributes to aromatic and slightly sweet wines. Malvasia di Bosa DOC highlights the grape's floral and fruity characteristics.

Moscato d'Asti DOCG

Description: Moscato, famous for its sweetness and aromatic profile, produces sparkling wines in Asti. Moscato d'Asti DOCG is renowned for its floral and fruity notes, with a gentle effervescence.

Riviera Ligure di Ponente Pigato DOC

Description: Pigato, native to Liguria, results in crisp and mineral-driven wines. Riviera Ligure di Ponente Pigato DOC showcases citrus and herbal nuances.

Alto Adige Pinot Bianco DOC

Description: Pinot Bianco, a member of the Pinot family, produces fresh and vibrant wines. Alto Adige Pinot Bianco DOC features green apple and floral aromas, offering a lively palate.

Collio Goriziano Ribolla Gialla DOC

Description: Ribolla Gialla, a grape native to Friuli, results in wines with bright acidity and citrusy notes. Collio Goriziano Ribolla Gialla DOC highlights the grape's refreshing and crisp profile.

Soave Superiore DOCG

Description: Soave, crafted from Garganega grapes in Veneto, produces elegant and mineral-driven wines. Soave DOC emphasizes a balanced palate with floral and almond undertones.

Timorasso Colli Tortonesi DOC

Description: Timorasso, a revived Piedmontese grape, creates complex and full-bodied wines. Timorasso Colli Tortonesi DOC showcases the grape's rich texture, with notes of ripe fruits and almonds.

Vernaccia di Oristano DOC

Description: Vernaccia, native to Sardinia, produces oxidative and nutty wines. Vernaccia di Oristano DOC showcases the grape's unique qualities with a distinctive amber hue.

Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG

Description: Vernaccia, grown in Tuscany, results in crisp and floral wines. Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG is known for its bright acidity, green apple notes, and a touch of almond.

Vermentino di Sardegna DOC

Description: Vermentino, prominent in Sardinia, produces aromatic and fresh wines. Vermentino di Sardegna DOC highlights the grape's citrusy and herbal characteristics.

Frequent questions about Italian White wines

When it comes to Italian white wines, there are common queries that enthusiasts often have. Let's address some of these questions to provide you with a better understanding of Italian white wines.

1. What distinguishes Italian white wines?

Italian white wines stand out for their distinctive characteristics shaped by diverse climates, terroirs, and indigenous grape varieties across the country. Each region's winemaking traditions contribute to a wide array of styles and flavor profiles.

2. How should Italian white wines be served?

To showcase their aromas and flavors, Italian white wines are best served slightly cooler than room temperature, typically around 8-12°C (46-54°F). This enhances the refreshing qualities without overwhelming the palate.

3. What food pairs well with Italian white wines?

Italian white wines exhibit great versatility in food pairings. They complement dishes such as seafood, salads, lighter pasta sauces, poultry, and fresh cheeses. The crisp acidity and vibrant fruit notes make them a delightful match for a variety of cuisines.

4. Do Italian white wines age well?

The aging potential of Italian white wines varies, with some best enjoyed young for their freshness, while others, like certain oak-aged varieties, can age gracefully for several years, developing complexity.

5. How many indigenous white grape varieties exist in Italy?

Italy boasts a rich tapestry of indigenous white grape varieties, contributing to its diverse winemaking heritage. While the exact count is challenging due to regional variations, local clones, and history, there are over 300 native white grape varieties estimated throughout the country. Examples include Garganega, Trebbiano, Vermentino, and Greco, each expressing unique characteristics based on their carachteristicas, terroir and winemaking processes.

6. Are Italian white wines exclusively made from native grape varieties?

No, Italian winemakers embrace both native and international grape varieties in white wine production. This fusion, akin to the reds' "Super Tuscans," results in unique blends that may include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio, adding a global touch to Italy's diverse white wine offerings.