ITALIAN WINE • A JOURNEY FROM THE ALPS TO THE MEDITERRANEAN

La Dolce Vita, One Glass at a Time.

The Italian classics are legendary. The discoveries might just steal the show.

Italy is a wine lover’s paradise, a country where centuries of tradition meet an astonishing diversity of grapes, landscapes, and flavors. In this delicious 90-minute journey, we’ll explore the grandi classici del vino italiano alongside the remarkable wines of southern Italy. From the noble vineyards of Piedmont to the sun-drenched hills of Sicily, discover the regions, grapes, and winemaking traditions that make Italy irresistible. Expect celebrated classics, hidden gems, and a few surprises that could change your wine-buying habits forever.

01 / DISCOVER

The Italian Classics

Explore the legendary regions and wines that have made Italy one of the world’s greatest wine cultures.

02 / EXPLORE

The Hidden Italy

Venture beyond familiar labels to discover indigenous grapes, southern treasures, and extraordinary values.

03 / UNDERSTAND

Your Italian Wine Guide

Learn the essential grapes, regions, and styles so you can navigate Italian wine with confidence.

Italy’s Extraordinary Wine Regions

From alpine vineyards to volcanic slopes and Mediterranean coastlines, Italy offers an extraordinary range of wine styles. Here are some of the regions and grape varieties that define the Italian wine experience.

NORTHERN ITALY

Piedmont

The kingdom of Nebbiolo, where Barolo and Barbaresco achieve extraordinary complexity, elegance, and longevity.

NORTHERN ITALY

Veneto

From lively Valpolicella to the richness of Amarone, discover the remarkable versatility of northeastern Italy.

CENTRAL ITALY

Tuscany

The home of Sangiovese, where Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and modern Tuscan blends tell very different stories.

CENTRAL ITALY

Umbria

Italy’s green heart, home to the powerful Sagrantino grape and some of the country’s most intriguing wines.

SOUTHERN ITALY

Campania

Ancient vineyards, volcanic soils, and remarkable native grapes, from the powerful Aglianico to the elegant white Fiano.

THE MEZZOGIORNO

Sicily & Puglia

Discover the Mediterranean character of Nero d’Avola, Negroamaro, and Primitivo, alongside the remarkable volcanic wines of Mount Etna.

Regional highlights illustrate the scope of Italian wine. Specific grapes, regions, producers, and vintages featured in the tasting may vary.

Great Wines. Smart Discoveries.

Some of Italy’s greatest wines have earned international fame and extraordinary prices. Others remain surprisingly affordable, even when their quality rivals far more celebrated bottles.

Through selections from the Wine School’s cellar, we’ll explore the traditions behind Italy’s iconic wines and uncover the regions and grape varieties that deliver exceptional value. You’ll discover how Italian wines are shaped by geography, history, and culture, and learn how to recognize quality beyond a famous name on the label.

YOUR ITALIAN WINE PASSPORT

Discover Italy Beyond the Familiar.

Love Chianti? Curious about Barolo? Wondering what makes southern Italian wines so exciting? Whether you’re a devoted Italophile or just beginning to explore, this class will expand your palate and give you the confidence to discover wonderful Italian wines on your own. Consider it a little vacation for your taste buds, no passport required.

90-Minute Experience •

Italian Wine Tasting •

Small Classes •

Cellar Selections •

Award-Winning Wine School

About the Wine School of Philadelphia

Founded in 2001 by winemaker and author Keith Wallace, the Wine School of Philadelphia offers public tasting classes and professional wine education in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse neighborhood. The school has earned two Best of Philly awards, including recognition for adult education, and a 2026 Philadelphia Inquirer Philly Favorites Silver award in the Trade School category. Classes take place at 109 S. 22nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.