Liguria gets lots of love for its pesto, focaccia, colorful architecture, and exquisite beaches. On the global stage, though, the wines of Liguria are among some of Italy's most discreet – but they're no less noteworthy.
Liguria's most interesting wines are the whites, with the pleasant exception of Rossese di Dolceacqua, an elegant red produced near the French border. Vermentino and Pigato are the most common local vines, while Bianchetta, Genoese, Cimixià, and Lumassina are among the most interesting indigenous grapes.
The wines produced in and around the Cinque Terre are excellent, with vertiginous terraced vineyards that were mentioned in the works of 14th-century poet Francesco Petrarca. One of the most particular wines made here is Sciacchetrà, a rare passito made from Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes. A glass is excellent to sip after a meal alongside local sweets, or simply on its own. The wines of Bisson are also interesting, produced with local grapes and aged at the bottom of the sea.
Here are some wines of Liguria worth keeping an eye out for either in Italy or at home.
Ottaviano Lambruschi Colli di Luni Vermentino Costa Marina 2019
Made from grapes harvested on old vines, the wine has aromas of fruit and herbs, like basil and sage, and is light, smooth, iodized, and flavorful. It's perfect with trofie al pesto. website
Testalonga Rossese di Dolceacqua 2019
This juicy red has aromas of cherry and black pepper, a fresh flavor, and is full of character. Enjoy it alongside tagliatelle with meat sauce. no website
Walter de Batté Harmoge 2017
This macerated wine made from the grapes of Cinque Terre – Albarola, Bosca, and Vermentino – is one of the masterpieces of Ligurian enology. It has aromas of resin and candied fruit and
an enveloping, savory flavor. Pour it alongside fish soups. website
Sancho Lumassina 2019
Made from Lumassina, a rare indigenous grape, this dry white wine has mineral flavors. Have it with a seafood salad. website
VisAmoris Western Ligurian Riviera Pigato Dream 2018
From a small family winery, this multifaceted fruity white has balsamic notes. Have it with fried shellfish and vegetables. website
Cover photo: Vineyards next to the sea in the Cinque Terre. (Getty Images)