Italy’s greatness—from an enological point of view, that is—undoubtedly lies in its diversity. While only half the size of neighboring France, the boot is home to hundreds, if not thousands, of indigenous grape varieties. Attached to Europe via the Alps, surrounded on three sides by the Mediterranean, and bisected by the Apennines, Italy’s geography encompasses countless unique climate zones. Spanning ten degrees of latitude with elevations ranging from sea level to some of the highest summits in Europe, it can produce fine wines in every style. A geologically tumultuous history shaped by tectonic activity and volcanism has created a number of distinct soil types, further increasing the possibilities.
     This degree of diversity is unseen in any other wine-producing country. It is the reason why you can taste wines from grape varieties so local they grow only in a single vineyard, and also why you can taste hundreds of distinctive iterations of the same grape cultivated across different regions. Italian wine goes far beyond Nebbiolo and Sangiovese; just as fascinating are the Mataòssu, Saorin, Sciascinoso, and Cagnulari that enjoy less of the spotlight but have just as much to say about the country’s rich culture and timeless traditions.
     This sampler covers all corners of Italia from Alto Adige to Sicily, from the Mediterranean coast to the Adriatic, from sunny seashores to icy mountainsides. The best way to celebrate Italy’s variety, after all, is to start pulling corks.