Eccolo: Your Italian Wine Gift Guide

Ok, yes. Wine is usually what I bring to the table, along with my smile and warm personality, of course.  However, there are several reasons why wine (and food) make excellent gifts. Obviously, there is the concept of universal appeal.  Wine is classic, cultural and versatile. Food…everyone loves food. Wine is shareable and customizable according to the recipients’ taste. Wine and food are practical and consumable. Ultimately, wine and food gifts are timeless, thoughtful, and almost always appreciated. Therefore, following are a few carefully curated selections of exceptional Italian wines and food that are ideal for gift-giving.

Jermann Ramat Pinot Grigio 2022 makes an exceptional gift for the holidays due to its uniqueness, versatility, and elegance. First, it comes from a renowned producer. Cantina Jermann is a prestigious name in Italian winemaking, celebrated for its dedication to quality and innovation. A gift from this producer signals thoughtfulness and impeccable taste. Jermann Ramat Pinot Grigio is made in the distinctive “ramato” style which results in a copper-hued or rosé-like wine. This unique approach adds complexity and makes it stand out from standard white Pinot Grigios, making it a memorable gift. The amber-copper color is visually striking, elegant and festive. In fact, the style of the wine and its history is a great conversation starter. Moreover, Jermann Ramat Pinot Grigio is versatile with notes of stone fruits, citrus, and subtle spices, complemented by a soft texture and refreshing acidity. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from seafood and poultry to charcuterie and creamy pastas, making it perfect for holiday meals or on its own.

Tenuta Regaleali Lamuri Nero d’Avola Sicilia DOC 2020 is also a unique and thoughtful gift from Tasca d’almerita, a respected name in Sicilian winemaking, known for blending tradition with modernity. Tenuta Regaleali Lamùri, which means “love,” comes from the region of Sicily and showcases the island’s signature red grape, Nero d’Avola. This wine is medium-bodied wine with soft tannins, balanced acidity, and flavors of ripe cherries, blackberries, and subtle spices. Nero d’Avola pairs well with a variety of holiday dishes, from roasted poultry and lamb to pasta and charcuterie boards. Its versatility and smooth profile is appealing to a wide range of palates. Further, as Nero d’Avola is a less common gift, Lamùri stands out as a slightly off-the-beaten-path choice. Its distinct Sicilian character can impress wine lovers looking to explore something new and different.

Argentiera Poggio Ai Ginepri 2022 comes from Tenuta Argentiera in Bolgheri, Tuscany—a region renowned for its high-quality wines (think Ornellaia and Sassicaia). This alone makes it perfect for celebratory meals and gift-giving. As it reflects the elegance and sophistication of Bolgheri wines, Poggio ai Ginepri is accessible in terms of price and approachability. A Tuscan red blend combining Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, Poggio ai Ginepri offers a profile of dark fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a hint of spice. Its harmonious balance of fruit and structure and ability to pair well with a variety of holiday dishes is a crowd-pleaser suitable for both casual wine drinkers and wine enthusiasts. What’s more? This vintage, 2022, is quite memorable, promising a wine that is ready to drink now, yet capable of aging for a few more years. All of these things make this Super Tuscan wine a wonderful gift choice. 

Cantine Florio Vecchioflorio Marsala Superiore DOCG 2019 brings us back to Sicily for a sweet treat. Marsala is one of Italy’s most iconic fortified wines, and Cantine Florio is a historic producer famed for its craftsmanship. While Marsala is not only a fantastic ingredient for cooking (adding depth to desserts like tiramisu or savory dishes like veal Marsala), it is also a delicious wine to sip. Vecchioflorio offers a harmonious blend of sweetness, nuttiness, and a touch of salinity, with flavors of caramel, raisins, and toasted almonds. Its complexity makes it a standout wine to enjoy as an aperitivo or alongside desserts. Vecchioflorio Marsala pairs beautifully with festive treats like biscotti, fruitcake, and chocolate desserts. Additionally, Vecchioflorio offers exceptional quality and versatility, elevating the spirit and making it a sweet gift!

Now that we have provided a few drink suggestions, it is only fitting to also suggest a food pairing. Pasta, of course, fits the bill.  

Rustichella d’Abruzzo (Spaghetti) is just the thing to pair with these wines! This Pasta Abruzzese di grano duro or durum wheat semolina pasta is absolutely delicious! The Peduzzi family has continued the pasta making tradition, which has been in place for over 100 years in the heart of Abruzzo. Rustichella d’Abruzzo pasta is made in small batches with top quality flour and water from the Apennine springs. The pasta goes through bronze dies and is dried at low temperatures, resulting in a very distinctive taste. We prepared the spaghetti with our own garlic, basil and tomato sauce. Yum!

These wines are stellar on their own, but they also pair well with the pasta and will do so with a variety of other dishes. There you go-great Italian wine and food gifts to appeal to any palate and any style.