The island of Ischia off the coast of Naples, where Biancolella is grown.

Five Italian Grape Varieties You’ve Never Heard Of

Gabriel Stone, 03.08.2022

Every Italian region – sometimes every valley it seems – hides a precious collection of indigenous grape varieties. Here are five exciting examples to look out for on a wine list.

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Mount Etna is a mesmerising presence over eastern Sicily and in recent years its wines have had a similar effect on wine lovers. Carricante is a local white variety that thrives on these high, volcanic slopes. High yielding and late ripening, when well managed it produces wines with lemony, electric acidity alongside a cooling aniseed and mineral character.

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