Beyond Pinot Grigio: A Wine Lover’s Guide to Crisp and Aromatic Italian White Wines for Spring and Summer

Spring is in the air, and while our thoughts might drift to lighter, brighter wines, are you stuck in a Pinot Grigio rut? It’s time to expand your horizons and explore the dazzling (and often overlooked) world of other Italian white wines. Forget the predictable *cough cough: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigo*– Italy offers a vibrant variety of whites, each with its own unique charm and perfect for everything from sun-kissed afternoon barbeques to lively porch pounders. Let’s uncork a few hidden gems that deserve a spot in your glass this season (and beyond!).

The Familiar Face with a Secret Name: Glera (aka Processo)

You know it, you love it, you’ve probably toasted with it countless times. But did you know the grape behind that bubbly brilliance we call Prosecco? Meet Glera, hailing from the picturesque Northeast region of Veneto. While Prosecco itself is the name of the sparkling wine, Glera is the star of the show, bringing those delightful aromas of white flowers, green apple, and pear to your celebratory sips. Think of it as the effortlessly chic friend who’s always ready for a party and loves to ball on a budget (i.e., good Prosecco is a steal for its price point) – Prosecco is perfect as an aperitivo, alongside light appetizers, or for any occasion! 

The Elegant Italian Love Child: Gavi (Cortese from Piedmont)

Imagine if the crisp minerality of a non-oaked Chardonnay from Chablis had a passionate rendezvous with the zesty, herbaceous charm of a mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre. Their offspring? Likely something akin to Gavi, crafted from the Cortese grape in the Northwest hills of the Piedmont region. This is your go-to for an afternoon hangout with friends or family. Its dry, refreshing character with notes of almond, lemon, and a subtle salinity makes it a fantastic partner for lean grilled meats, vibrant spring vegetables, and classic light pasta dishes. It’s sophisticated yet utterly approachable – and other wines can take note.

For the Sauvignon Blanc Devotees: Prepare to Be Verdicchio’d (from Marche)

Calling all Sauvignon Blanc lovers! If you crave that bright acidity, those herbaceous notes, and that refreshing zing, then prepare to be utterly impressed – perhaps even replace your Sauvy Blanc – with Verdicchio from the Marche region, nestled along Italy’s eastern coast. But Verdicchio offers a captivating twist. While it shares that vibrant acidity and often boasts notes of green apple and citrus, it frequently unveils a compelling almond bitterness on the finish, adding a layer of complexity and intrigue that sets it apart from more standard varietals with a similar flavor profile. Depending on where it’s grown and how it’s made, you might also find hints of floral notes like chamomile or a subtle minerality reminiscent of wet stones. It’s a fantastic match for seafood, especially grilled fish or shellfish, and its refreshing character can cut through richer preparations beautifully.

Craving Something with a Little More Heft? Meet Fiano (from Campania)

Perhaps your palate leans towards something with a bit more body, a touch of richness akin to a Semillon? Then say ciao bella to Fiano, your new best friend. This gem from the Campania region in Southern Italy delivers a delightful profile of stone fruits like white peach and apricot, balanced by a medium acidity and a lovely, round texture. It’s incredibly versatile – just as enjoyable to sip on its own as it is paired with a wide array of dishes. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of food pairing: it shines with roasted chicken, creamy pasta dishes, richer seafood, and even some spicier cuisines.

My Personal White Wine Crown Jewel: I’m a Fan Boy for Falanghina (Southern Italy)

And now, for my personal pick for the white wine hall of fame: the captivating Falanghina, also hailing from the sun-kissed Southern Italian Peninsula. This beauty shines with aromas of white peach, a distinct minerality (a direct result of its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea), and a delicate hint of almond extract on the finish (one of my favorite finishes of a white wine). It’s a wine that whispers of sunshine and coastal breezes. Interestingly, in 2014, Falanghina gained official recognition by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau for use in the U.S., and since then, we’ve been seeing this lovely varietal grace more and more wine lists and shelves across the country. With its unique aromatic profile and food-friendly nature, I’m  hoping its growing popularity will someday earn it its rightful spot among the top white wines in the world.

So, this spring, dare to venture beyond the usual suspects and explore the incredible diversity of Italian white wines. From the crisp refreshment of Glera to the complex allure of Falanghina, there’s a perfect Italian white waiting to elevate your next meal or moment. Cin cin!

Ready to dive deeper into the world of Italian wines and beyond? Join us each week on the Pour and Explore blog here at Shall We Wine for insider picks, pro tips, and must-try recommendations!

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Wine Educator | Experience Curator | WSET Level III Certified

As a proud Black gay man with roots in Southern hospitality and Midwestern sensibility, I bring a unique and intentional approach to wine education and experience curation. My journey in wine is fueled by a deep love for the craft and a commitment to creating visibility and belonging for those often pushed to the margins—especially at the intersection of Black and queer identities.

I hold a WSET Level III certification and specialize in designing inclusive, community-centered wine experiences that challenge the status quo and expand the way people engage with wine. Through storytelling, education, and hospitality, I aim to lower barriers, spark curiosity, and encourage exploration beyond the familiar. My mission is simple: to make wine more accessible, equitable, and joyful for all.