MY EVERYDAY ITALIAN REDS!
In Italy, wine is an integral part of the family meal and an essential part of Italian life. Each region and village produces its own wine, quite often from local indigenous grapes, that is the perfect match for the local cuisine and always with its own unique appeal.
Some of these wines are complex, special occasion wines, like Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino, but most Italian wines are affordable and uncomplicated and meant for everyday dining. It’s these uncomplicated “everyday” wines that first attracted me to Italian wines and still excite me today.
Everyday Italian reds are fruit forward, easy drinking and versatile with a wide variety of foods. Of course these wines are great with Italian food, but don’t stop there. These are inexpensive wines to keep on hand and not be afraid to open up for almost any weeknight meal. Whether it is grilled salmon, roast chicken, a saucy pork chop or pan seared steak, everyday Italian reds have just the right amount of tannins and mouth watering acidity to complement foods impeccably and refresh your mouth for another bite.
Here are some of my favorite wines to keep on hand for everyday dinners:
BARBERA D'ASTI & BARBERA D'ALBA
ROSSO DI MONTEPULCIANO
MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO
VALPOLICELLA
BARDOLINO
LANGHE NEBBIOLO
DOLCETTO & DOGLIANI