Italy's unique geography, spread over an area of 702,000 hectares, offers plenty of sunshine, slopes, and elevation differences. Combined with a rich soil composition of volcanic soil, clay, and limestone, Italy has been blessed with ideal conditions for wine production, and many of the world's best and most popular red wines are created here.

On the ShareWine marketplace, you can buy the finest Italian wines on auction from other passionate wine collectors' cellars across Europe.

Ranking of Italian Wines

Italian wines are ranked according to a wine law inspired by French wines. This is called "Denominazione di Origine Controllata," which can be abbreviated as DOC. This means that there are specific requirements for grape varieties, alcohol content, aging method and time, acidity levels, and more that wines from specific areas must meet and adhere to.

DOCG was later introduced and is the highest ranking in Italian wine. It stands for "Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita." Here, there is a guarantee of higher quality, and the requirements are further enhanced.

Wine Regions in Italy

Wine is produced throughout Italy, but here are some of the most well known wine regions:

Piedmont

Piedmont is located in northwest Italy. The region is known for being home to some of Italy's most famous and fabulous wines. Complex wines are produced here, and there is something for every taste. 75% of the wines fall under a DOC or DOCG, and on ShareWine, you can find a wide selection of exceptional Barolo and Barbaresco wines from all the renowned producers on auction. Traditionally, these wines are characterized by being very intense, tannic, and structured, but you can find a broad range from the region's many famous wineries. Additionally, you can also discover many exciting variations of the more fruity and rounded wines made from the Barbera grape.

See wines on auction from Piedmont

Tuscany

Tuscany is located in central Italy, south of Florence and northwest of Rome. The area is home to world-renowned quality wines such as Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, and the so-called Supertuscans. Many of the winemakers in the region are known for being innovative and experimental while also being traditional and classic. Many different grape varieties are grown here, but Sangiovese is the king. Tuscany is said to be the foundation of the transformation that Italian wine has undergone. The Italian wines from this region showcase a wide spectrum, ranging from being light and elegant to more full bodied with lots of power.

See wines on auction from Tuscany

Veneto

Veneto is located in northeast Italy and is especially known for its full bodied Amarone and Valpolicella Ripasso wines, which have certainly found their way into the hearts of many. It is also here the sparkling wine Prosecco is found.

See wines on auction from Veneto

The 5 Most Well-known Grape Varieties in Italian Wine

Nebbiolo is found in northern Italy, especially in Piedmont. Many places around the world have attempted to make wine from this grape, but only with moderate success. This is not the case in Italy, where it has optimal conditions. The grape is known for its high acidity, abundant tannins, and plenty of character.
Sangiovese is the most planted grape in all of Italy and has its origin in Tuscany. Italian wine made from this grape is definitely worth tasting! The Sangiovese grape is high in acidity and can be blended with other grapes, which is often seen in the so-called Supertuscans. You will always come across the Sangiovese grape in the famous Italian Chianti or Brunello wines.
Barbera is one of the most widespread grapes in Italy. It is particularly used in northern Italy, where young and fruity wines are produced. This grape has a low tannin content but high acidity, which contributes to the freshness in red wines made from the Barbera grape.
Primitivo grapes produce warm, sun ripened, powerful Italian wines. Primitivo is identical to the Zinfandel grape and is known for being spicy and giving wines that often have a high alcohol content.
Corvina and Rondinella are grapes used in the famous Amarone wine. These grapes contribute character and strength to this Italian wine type. The wine is high on alcohol and dryness, power, and plenty of dark berry fruit.

Fun fact: Did you know that there is no single word for "hangover" in Italian? Whether that means you can't drink too much Italian wine is for you to decide. Salute.

Sell Your Wine from Italy

If you have good wine from Italy stored in your cellar that you are considering selling, you can easily put it up for auction on the ShareWine marketplace, and give all the buyers in our community the opportunity to bid on your wine.

Sell Your Wine from Italy - Create an Auction

Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Wine

What characterizes wines from Italy?

Italian wines have won the hearts of wine lovers worldwide. From Barolo to Brunello, Italian wines offer a wealth of taste experiences that are hard to match.

Italy is known for producing a wide range of wines, from dry and crisp white wines to complex and full bodied red wines. Italy also has a reputation for making wines with high acidity, making them suitable for food pairing.

Another reason for Italy's popularity as a wine producer is the country's focus on tradition and quality. Many Italian wine producers have a long family history in wine production, and they have a strong connection to their land and their wines. This focus on tradition and quality is reflected in the wines they produce.

Italy is also known for its famous wine regions that produce some of the world's most iconic wines. These regions have unique climatic and geographical conditions that give their wines their distinctive taste and aroma.

What food pairs best with Italian wine?

Italian wines pair perfectly with Italian cuisine, especially dishes like pizza and pasta, as well as more refined dishes like lamb and beef.

See which Italian wines are currently available on auction and find the perfect companion for your next meal.

Where is the best place to buy Italian wines?

There are significant advantages to buying Italian wines on the ShareWine marketplace. Here, you can find many rare Italian wines from all the famous regions and producers, in both new and old vintages. Often at prices far below what you can find elsewhere. See which Italian wines are currently at auction and make a good deal on your next Italian wine experience.