The Best Value Wines from Italy

The best wines from Italy at the Wine Access 2011 International Value Wine Awards

Vineyard in Italy

This year was a real fight to the finish for wines from all over Italy. There are more than 100 varieties indigenous to the country, so it’s no surprise to see a battle for supremacy. With wines from the north, south, east and western regions that represent styles ranging from sparkling muscat to big reds, you really have to shine in this category to win. There’s no doubt the final results are dominated by wines from the Veneto and Tuscany. However, it was the region of Puglia, known for its olive oil production and fantastic, creamy burrata cheese, that is the usurper, with the Giorgio & Gianni 2008 Nero Negroamaro. (Stuart Tobe)

Photo: Carrie Ansell

  • Giorgio & Gianni 2008 Nero Negroamaro
  • Sartori 2009 Vigneti di Valdimezzo Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore
  • Mionetto NV Il Moscato
  • Masi 2008 Campofiorin
  • Sartori 2007 Regolo Rosso
Sartori 2009 Vigneti di Valdimezzo Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore
89Points

A spicy and tobacco nose, with plum, cassis, herbal, fig and mocha notes. The flavours are consistent, if a little rustic or rough around the edges, with ripe fruits and a beautiful finish.