Exploring Italy Beyond Tuscany: Piedmont, Veneto and Sicily

Tuscany may be Italy’s best-known wine region, but beyond its borders lie landscapes of equal beauty and distinction. From the alpine foothills of Piedmont to the sunlit vineyards of Sicily, Italy’s diversity of climate, soil and culture produces wines of extraordinary individuality.

At Friarwood, we believe in celebrating these contrasts — wines that reveal the soul of their region through craftsmanship, heritage and precision.

Piedmont – Elegance and Power in the North

Cradled by the Alps, Piedmont is the home of Nebbiolo — one of Italy’s most expressive and noble grapes. Here, meticulous viticulture and generations of winemaking expertise yield reds of depth and longevity. Yet beyond Barolo and Barbaresco, the region also offers vibrant, honest wines that showcase a more immediate side of the Langhe.

Friarwood recommends:

Réva Barolo 2021
Founded in 1867 and renewed in 2013 under Miroslav Lekeš, Réva has become one of Monforte d’Alba’s most admired estates. The 2021 vintage delivers precision and poise: translucent garnet in colour, with aromas of rose, cherry, raspberry and blood orange. Silky tannins and a mineral finish underline its refinement.
Perfect with tajarin al tartufo, osso buco, duck confit or aged cheeses.
Friarwood says: A beautifully elegant Barolo that reflects both Réva’s polished touch and the freshness of the 2021 vintage.
Vinchio Vaglio Barbaresco 2020
A classic expression from one of Monferrato’s most dedicated cooperatives. This youthful Barbaresco shows vibrant fruit, violet and dried flowers, unfolding into a soft, long finish. Structured yet accessible, it captures Nebbiolo’s graceful side.
Pair with braised meats, guinea fowl or mature cheeses.
Cascina Ebreo Rosso 2022
A natural red blend of Barbera, Dolcetto and Nebbiolo from Peter Weimer’s biodynamic estate. Unfiltered and minimally sulphured, it’s fresh and lively, with red cherry, wild strawberry and earthy nuance. A wine that reflects the raw authenticity of the Langhe.
Enjoy with charcuterie, tomato-based pastas or grilled pork.
Friarwood says: Minimal-intervention winemaking at its best — no manipulation, just pure expression of place.

Why it matters: Piedmont produces wines of immense personality — from Barolo’s grandeur to the natural purity of artisanal producers — making it one of the most compelling regions in all of Italy.

Veneto – Craft and Character from the Northeast

Veneto stretches from the mountains to the sea, producing wines that combine richness and elegance in equal measure. Valpolicella, in particular, showcases the artistry of Corvina-based blends, from the refined lift of Ripasso to the depth of Amarone.

Friarwood recommends:

Domenico Fraccaroli Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC 2019
Fragrant and refined, with notes of red cherry, cranberry and warm spice. Ripasso’s signature depth comes from refermenting Valpolicella wine on Amarone skins, adding body and complexity while retaining freshness. Twelve months in French oak lend structure and charm.
Ideal with rabbit ragù, roast pork or mature cheese.
Domenico Fraccaroli Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2016
Aged for 30 months in oak and 18 in bottle, this Amarone is powerful yet poised — showing ripe red fruit, cocoa, spice and a long, velvety finish. A masterclass in balance and patience.
Perfect with beef, game or aged cheese.

Why it matters: Veneto’s winemakers blend technical mastery with respect for tradition, creating wines that feel both generous and precise.

Sicily – Mediterranean Energy and Modern Renaissance

Sicily has evolved into one of Italy’s most exciting and progressive wine regions. Its volcanic soils, sea breezes and organic viticulture yield wines of clarity, energy and distinctive character. From Etna’s volcanic reds to crisp coastal whites, the island’s wines are as diverse as its landscapes.

Friarwood recommends:

Judeka Etna Rosso DOC 2021
Crafted from Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio grown on the slopes of Mount Etna, this wine captures the volcanic terroir’s vibrancy. Aromas of dark fruit, chocolate and Mediterranean herbs lead into a fresh, finely textured palate. Polished, fragrant and full of vitality.
Pair with aubergine parmigiana, grilled lamb or wild mushroom risotto.
Baglio Baiata Alagna Grillo Griari 2022
A bright, mineral white made from Sicily’s native Grillo grape. Fresh citrus, wildflowers and orange blossom lead to a saline finish, reflecting its coastal origin near Marsala. Crisp and balanced — perfect for seafood or light Mediterranean dishes.
Ideal with octopus salad, citrus-glazed sea bass or goat cheese crostini.

Why it matters: Sicily represents the new face of Italian wine — sustainable, expressive and unmistakably Mediterranean.

The Joy of Discovery

Exploring Italy beyond Tuscany uncovers a world of regional identity — Piedmont’s discipline, Veneto’s generosity and Sicily’s warmth. Each glass reflects centuries of craft and a deep connection to place.

At Friarwood, we invite you to discover these hidden corners of Italy, where every bottle tells a different story of passion, patience and provenance.