Unleash your Inner Italian by Sara d’Amato

Sara d'Amato

The typical impression of the ‘Italian’ involves a passionate, exuberant individual with a strong desire for sensual pleasures. This usually includes fervor for great food, lively company and of course, delicious wine. However oversimplified this may sound, it is more often the case than not when it comes to wine producers. It is nearly impossible not to be utterly charmed and absolutely enthralled when listening to such individuals speak about their latest offerings. I was reminded of this at a recent tasting hosted by Sandro Bottega, well-known for his impressive bottle designs, Grappa, and Prosecco, and who perfectly exemplifies the classic Italian virtues.

He is among a great number of producers who make a particular attempt to appeal to women in Italy and abroad. With the realization that 57% of wine purchasing decisions in North American are made by women, a recent shift in marketing has come about to increasingly appeal to this large segment of the wine-buying public. Luckily, Italian producers have a long tradition of reveling in the feminine characteristics to wine, and have tapped into the seductive power and allure of wine to attract women. In order to decide, as a woman, if you allow yourself to be swept away by the romance of it all, it is worth exploring these passionate offerings and perhaps they will lead to the unleashing of your inner Italian spirit.

Bottega Petalo Il Vino Dell’ Amore, Italy, $13.05

Oozing with lush, floral aromatics and sweet peach nectar, this lightly fizzy Rose from Bottega has wide, uncomplicated appeal. Perfect for a Sunday brunch or served with a berry tart.

Inama Vin Soave Classico 2009, DOC, Veneto, Italy, $17.95

As the name suggests, this Soave comes the classic or original delineation of the region before it expanded. The wines from this central spot are thought to be of greater quality than the more simplistic Soave appellation. This example has great personality and exceptional refinement, like the Jackie O of Italian white wines.

Ca Del Baio Asili Barbaresco 2007, DOCG, Piedmont, Italy, $29.95

Barbaresco, as opposed to the neighboring, more masculine Barolo, has long thought to have great feminine character but is not short on heady appeal. Aromatic, silky and with plenty of complex intrigue, this great wine of northern Italy is sure to turn heads.

Capanna Brunello Di Montalcino 2006, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy, $47.95

Brunello’s personality is also though to have feminine properties especially in terms of its sass and alluring nature. Brunello is a special clone of the prolific Tuscan variety of Sangiovese and is still widely thought of as the wine of the elite and the sophisticates.

For a shopping list of wines available at your nearest LCBO, click here.