The rise of Italian varieties in Australia: 14 must-try wines rated 91+

If you've taken a look in Australian bottleshops or at wine lists over the last few years, you may have noticed a steady increase in Italian grape varieties. Think grapes like nebbiolo, fiano, pinot grigio, prosecco, sangiovese, barbera, arneis and nero d'Avola.

Many of these varieties hail from warm, dry regions of Italy, making them well suited to Australia’s Mediterranean climates, such as those found in McLaren Vale and the Riverina. The grapes thrive in our long growing seasons, retaining bright natural acidity while developing depth of flavour and structure.

In this list, you’ll find 14 Australian expressions of Italian varieties, each rated an impressive 91–97 points by the Tasting Team. Whether you're looking for food-friendly reds, textural whites or lively sparkling, consider this your invitation to explore – and shop – some of the most exciting wines in the country right now.

Shop these wines

Pipan Steel Wines | Thick as Thieves Wines | Oliver's Taranga Vineyards | Wise Wine | Corang Estate | Cloak & Dagger | ChaLou Wines | Zerella Wines | Angullong Wines | First Ridge