Italy is most well-known for its red wines. The mention of Bolgheri, Barbaresco and Brunello can race collectors’ hearts. But that doesn’t make them any less worth your attention. The 2022 Food & Wine Classic was held in Aspen. Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey and Wine Direct Carlin Karr, both from the internationally acclaimed Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder Colorado, brought that point home in the most moving way possible.
Over the course of their presentation on iconic Italian whites, they took guests through seven wines that, though perhaps less familiar to the non-wine-professionals in the crowd, could easily be collected with the best of Burgundy and beyond.
Stuckey stated that there is a seminar about the great Brunello [and] other great red wines at many wine professionals’ gatherings. He also explained that the public may not know that there are great icons whites across Italy. They’re not only iconic, but they’re also world-class…People place them in their cellars and get great returns later.
Among the many great Italian white wines featured at the event were the Cristiana Tiberio Ponte Canale Trebbiano d’Abruzzo and the Borgo del Tiglio Friulano Ronco delle Chiesa Collio. These wines may not be familiar to many, but their beauty in the glass and on the plate is amazing.
Some of the best white wines in Italy are made by some of the most respected names in red wine production. For example, the Ornellaia Bianco is a deep expression of Sauvignon Blanc from Tuscany that can be used as a complement to Bolgheri’s iconic red. Gaja also produces the superb Gaia & Rey Chardonnay in Langhe. This is a great pairing for the more well-known Nebbiolos from Barbaresco and Barolo. However, greatness can be found in all Italian wines.
This is the beauty of Italy: It has so many terroirs, soil types, altitudes, and climates that it can produce wines of great quality that collectors are eager to buy. It is important to also learn about the often overlooked white wines.
Stuckey stated, “We are predestined to think of Italy [in terms] of the iconic reds.” Is there white wine in a region such as Tuscany? Yes, but the reds outshine whites. He said that there are interesting whites in Piemonte. But at the end, it’s all about the red varieties there. Part of our exploration must be these great iconic whites.” They don’t get enough attention. “And that’s why this seminar is about.”
Food & Wine Classic is the perfect venue to challenge preconceived notions. He said, “There must be an education process to discover.” We work hard to create a panel of great wines. They are just providing the best stuff for people to taste, and they will take the Food & Wine Classic experience for many decades.”