We’re about to embark on a tour of Italy’s most beautiful and historic regions – by way of the wines produced there. At Total Wine & More, it’s time for Discover Italy, our two-week exploration of the country’s wines, with in-store tastings, classes and special deals on some remarkable Italian wines.

Italy’s wines come from all over the boot-shaped peninsula, which boasts a mix of terrains and climates providing ideal conditions for many types of vines. Combined with Italy’s reputation for wonderful cuisine – and the Italian tradition that considers wine part of a meal – it’s no wonder Italy is the source of so much good wine.

Its wine regions crowd the map from the Alpine peaks of the Alto Adige to Puglia, in the heel of the boot, plus the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. Some of the greatest wines come from five regions:

Piedmont

This northwestern region translates as “foot of the mountains,” and its abundant hillsides offer optimal terrain for vines. Barolo and Barbaresco are classic Piedmont red wines made with Nebbiolo grapes; Gavi and Arneis are fresh and delicious white wines produced in the region.

Valdadige

In Italy’s northeast, the cool climate is ideal for producing dry white wines – especially fine Pinot Grigios.

Veneto

The Veneto is Italy’s largest wine-producing area, home of the zesty Pinot Grigios and bubbly Proseccos we love. The region’s bright Bardolino and Valpolicella wines are wonderful reds for warm weather.

Tuscany

This beautiful and central region is home to Sangiovese, the iconic Italian grape that produces the famed red wines Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, among others.

Southern Italy

The regions south of Rome have produced wine since the Greeks crossed the seas and planted vines 3,000 years ago. The warm south is a source for ripe and flavorful wines in both traditional and modern styles.

That’s just a hint of the wines produced across the Italian map. Looking to really get to know a region and its wines? Consider our Under the Tuscan Sun class, a deep dive into the wines of Italy’s most storied wine region, held in our area stores Thursday, June 9.

Or just stop by this weekend or next (6/9-6/12 and 6/16-6/19), when we’ll be pouring crisp whites, classic red styles and lovely aromatic sparkling wines, so you can Discover Italy one sip at a time.