One of my favorite parts about enjoying a glass (or bottle) of wine is the experience’s ability to transport me to the country, the region, and even the vineyard from which it comes. All of the elements in play that come together to create that delicious nectar of the gods — the variety of the grape, the soil that it’s grown in, the weather during the growing season, the farming practices, the winemaker’s style, the topography — come together to form “a sense of place.” The common term for this culmination of influences is terroir. 

In this connoisseur’s opinion, no country expresses terroir as completely as Italy. Italian wines run the spectrum from white to red, sparkling to still, bone dry to sweet, earthy to fruity, and everything in-between. Even with all of that variation, each wine has a strong “Italian-ness” that is undeniable. 

But enough talk… let’s taste! Here are some fantastic selections that will help take you on your very own tour of Italy without the airports, pricey flights, or jet lag. Better yet, they can all be found at Hunger Mountain Co-op! 

Region: Piemonte
Known for its wine diversity and unparalleled quality, Piemonte is considered one of the greatest wine regions in the world. Mouthwatering whites and iconic reds reign supreme, as well as the world’s most beloved sweet and bubbly wine, Moscato. 

• Batasiolo Gavi di Gavi is a classy white to drink in the sun. Pair with alpine cheeses or seafood.  
• Batasiolo Barbera d’Alba bright red fruit herbal. Pair with BBQ or pasta with cream sauce.  
• Batasiolo Dolcetto d’Alba dark fruit, earthy and juicy. Pair with meaty red sauce or mushroom risotto.  
• Roscato Moscato fun, fresh, frizzante. No pairing is necessary, but fresh berries are nice.  
• Batasiolo Brachetto sweet, sparkling rosé. Amazing with vanilla panna cotta or chocolate torte.   

Region: Tuscany
Did I say Piemonte is unparalleled in quality? Well, don’t tell that to a Tuscan! The most recognized, beloved, and visited regions of Italy also boast some of the most renowned wines in the world.  

• Rocca delle Macìe ‘Moonlite’ Chardonnay/Vermentino fresh, vibrant, unoaked. Pairs with sunshine and good friends … and seafood!  
• Rocca della Macìe Chianti Classico cherry, dried herbs, earthy. Pairs with pasta Bolognese, grilled vegetables, or a charcuterie board.  
• Rocca delle Macìe’ Sasyr’ juicy red and black fruit, spices. Pairs with everything at the cookout.  

Region: Trentino – Alto Adige
From the foothills of the Alps to the rugged peaks of the Dolomites, this region is custom made for crisp, refreshing, mouthwatering wines with alpine flair. 

• Bottega Vinaia Pinot Grigio bright, crisp, clean. Pair with a sunny spot and a second bottle!  

Written by Guest Author Alex Moran, Certified Sommelier

About The Author
Alex Moran grew up in Miami, FL but has called Vermont home for the past 20 years. Alex has worked for Farrell Distributing for four years. Prior to Farrell, he spent 16 years running restaurant bars and wine programs in the NEK and Burlington. Most recently, Alex was the Beverage Director for The Farmhouse Group in Burlington.

Alex Moran is a Certified Sommelier through The Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Cider Professional, and also holds a Cicerone beer certification. Alex is working on an Italian Wine Scholar certification and is a Farrell Distributing Fine Wine sales team member.