In the summer, the way we dine changes, as does the way we choose wine. From aperitifs to outdoor dinners, barbecues, and vacations, we need wines that combine freshness, balance, and character. Here are ten Italian wines to discover—all of which are featured in our publication *Wines for Summer 2026*.
We’ve selected ten wines that, thanks to their freshness and drinkability, best capture the spirit of summer. Because a summer wine isn’t simply an “easy” wine: it’s a wine that brings pleasure, showcase seasonal cuisine and showcase the region where it comes from.
Ten labels to discover without breaking the bank so you can enjoy a summer of great drinks.
SPARKLING WINE
Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore La Rivetta 120 Extra Brut Villa Sandi
Score: 95/100
Average price: € 15,00
100% Glera. Charmat method for 6 months. Greenish-yellow in color, with a fine, continuous effervescence. Fragrant notes of exotic fruit, aromatic herbs, and white flowers. Salty, fresh, and lively, with a delightful drinkability.
THE SHARP WHITES
FCO Sauvignon 2025 Monviert
Score: 94/100
Average price: €16.00
100% Sauvignon. Aged in stainless steel. Straw-yellow with greenish highlights. On the nose: yellow peach, apricot, lime, elderflower, lemon balm, and citron zest. On the palate, it is sleek and precise, with well-defined fruit, excellent structure, and a lingering finish that evokes orange zest and aromatic herbs.
Etna Bianco Contrada Taccione 2024 Planeta
Score: 94/100
Average price: € 20,00
100% Carricante. Aged in stainless steel, tonneau barrels, and large barrels for several months. Greenish straw yellow. Refined, varietal aromas—fruity, with notes of alfalfa, acacia flowers, white peach, and white almond, against a backdrop of lava rock. The palate is taut, briny, composed, and balanced, with vibrant freshness and a slightly bitter finish.
AA Pinot Bianco Riserva Tyrol 2024, Kellerei Merano Winery
Score: 94/100
Average price: €27.00
100% Pinot Bianco. Aged in barrels and stainless steel for about 8 months. Bright straw yellow with greenish highlights. Elegant on the nose with aromatic herbs, ripe citrus, wildflowers, and hints of apple and pear. Light, sleek, and elegant, with a distinct mineral character and a juicy, pleasant palate.
FRUITY WHITE WINES
Collio Friulano 2025 Tunella
Score: 92/100
Average price: €15.50
100% Friulano. Aged exclusively in stainless steel. Delicate straw yellow color. Aromas of plum, pear, magnolia and acacia blossoms, with the characteristic hint of almond. Very clean on the palate, smooth and balanced, with a velvety mouthfeel and excellent drinkability. Long and harmonious finish.
Calabria Bianco Greco 2025 Statti
Score: 90/100
Average price: €11.00
100% Greco. Steel. Straw yellow. Pleasant aroma of white peach and light floral notes. Fresh, lively, pleasant, and briny on the palate. Good finish.
Roma Malvasia Puntinata 2025, Castello di Torre in Pietra Winery
Score: 90/100
Average price: €10.00
100% Malvasia Puntinata. Aged in stainless steel for 6 months. Light straw yellow, with greenish hues. Delicate floral aromas (jasmine and acacia) combined with fruity, citrus, and herbal notes. Impressive on the palate, fresh and briny, with good structure and a savory progression, leading to a persistent, almond-like finish.
ROSÉ WINES
Toscana Rosato Eva 2025 Tenuta Casadei
Score: 90/100
Average price: € 17,00
A blend of Syrah and Vermentino. Aged on the lees in stainless steel for about six months. Very pale rosé color. Delicate aromas of peach, raspberry, and flowers. Fresh and briny on the palate, smooth and easy to drink.
Venezia Giulia Rosé Liende No. 5 2025 La Viarte
Score: 91/100
Average price: € 19,00
100% Schioppettino. Steel. Onion pink. On the nose: wild strawberry, raspberry, cream, and wilted rose. On the palate: fresh and clean, with delicate strawberry notes; immediately drinkable and pleasant.
RED
Lazio Cesanese Matidia 2024 Casale del Giglio
Score: 91/100
Average price: €16.00
100% Cesanese. Aged 18 months in tonneau barrels. Dark garnet with brilliant highlights. The nose offers notes of ripe red fruit and graphite. On the palate, it is well-balanced, enveloping, and warm, with just the right amount of freshness, elegance, and length.
