Glossario del Vino
WINE GLOSSARY
For lovers of wine, here are some notes for the wines ( ) and varietals ( ) mentioned in the book.
Aglianico – One of Italy’s greatest red varietals, known for its intense structure, bold tannins, and deep flavors of blackberry, leather, smoke, and spice.
Often called the “Barolo of the South”, it ages beautifully and pairs perfectly with rich dishes
Aglianico del Vulture – A powerful, age-worthy red made from Aglianico grapes grown on the volcanic slopes of Mount Vulture in the Basilicata region.
A perfect match for rich, hearty dishes.
Arneis : A white grape varietal primarily grown in the Roero region of Piedmont.
It produces a crisp, aromatic white wine that is often referred to as Barolo Bianco (the "White Barolo") due to its high quality and regional association.
Barolo – Known as the King of Wines and the Wine of Kings , Barolo is made from 100% Nebbiolo, a grape that produces bold, highly structured wines with remarkable aging potential.
With its deep garnet hue, intense aromas of rose, tar, truffle, and dark cherries, and firm tannins that soften beautifully over time, Barolo is not for the impatient.
Pair it with truffle risotto, braised meats, or aged Parmigiano-Reggiano for an unforgettable experience.
Brunello di Montalcino – Elegant yet powerful, Brunello di Montalcino is crafted from 100% Sangiovese Grosso, a special clone of Sangiovese that thrives in the rolling hills of Tuscany.
Aged for years before release, Brunello develops layers of black cherry, dried herbs, leather, and earth, with a structure that allows it to evolve beautifully in the bottle.
It’s best enjoyed with wild boar ragù, Florentine steak, or a plate of pecorino cheese and honey.
Chianti Classico – Made primarily from Sangiovese, this iconic Tuscan red is known for its bright acidity, firm tannins, and flavors of tart cherry, dried herbs, tobacco, and spice.
Aged versions, especially Riserva and Gran Selezione, develop deeper complexity with notes of leather and earth.
A classic pairing for pasta, grilled meats, and aged cheeses.
Nebbiolo – The noble grape grown in Piedmont & Lombardy is behind Barolo and Barbaresco, Nebbiolo produces highly tannic, complex reds with notes of rose, tar, cherry, and truffle, aging into masterpieces of elegance and depth.
Pinot Grigio – A crisp, light-bodied white from Northern Italy with notes of green apple, pear, citrus, and white flowers, often with a refreshing minerality.
While most Italian Pinot Grigio is easy-drinking and zesty, high-quality versions from Alto Adige and Friuli offer greater complexity and depth.
Perfect for seafood, salads, and light pastas.
Perricone – A bold, aromatic red from Sicily, offering flavors of dark cherries, wild herbs, black pepper, and cocoa, often used in blends but stunning on its own.
Rosso di Montalcino – Often called the “younger sibling” of Brunello di Montalcino, this 100% Sangiovese wine is aged for a shorter period, making it more approachable, fresh, and fruit-driven.
With notes of red cherry, wild berries, violets, and spice, it offers the elegance of Montalcino wines but with softer tannins and earlier drinkability.
A perfect pairing for pasta, grilled meats, and charcuterie.
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs (Champagne, France) – A prestigious, 100% Chardonnay Champagne, known for its elegance, finesse, and creamy texture.
Aged for nearly a decade, it offers bright citrus, white flowers, toasted brioche, and a long, mineral-driven finish.
A true symbol of luxury and celebration.
Taurasi Riserva – This bold, age-worthy red is made from Aglianico grapes and must be aged for at least four years, with at least 18 months in wood.
It boasts deep flavors of black cherry, plum, leather, tobacco, and spice, with firm tannins and high acidity, making it ideal for long aging.
A powerful, structured wine perfect for rich meats and aged cheeses.
Tintilia (Molise) – A rare, native red grape from Molise, producing medium to full-bodied wines with notes of red berries, spice, and earth, balanced by fresh acidity and soft tannins.
Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC – A prestigious, rare white wine from Abruzzo, crafted by the legendary Valentini estate. Unlike typical Trebbiano, this wine is rich, complex, and built to age, with notes of golden apple, citrus, almond, and a distinct minerality. Highly sought after, it’s considered one of Italy’s finest and most expensive white wines.
Vermentino – A crisp, refreshing white known for its bright citrus, green apple, and herbal notes, often with a touch of salinity, making it perfect for seafood and Mediterranean dishes.