The most planted grapes in Italy
Italy is the country with the greatest diversity of grape varieties in the world. According to the data of the OIV, about 80 grape varieties represent 75% of the planted area of Italy, this is quite a lot compared to New Zealand where only two grape varieties make 75% of their planted area (Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir). These numbers tell us about the great variety of wines and styles that can be found in Italy. The 5 most planted grapes in Italy can easily be explained.
Firstly, Sangiovese is the main grape of Tuscany and more specifically of the DOCG's Chianti and Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Morellino di Scansano and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, as well as the extensive Tuscan IGT. It is followed by the Montepulciano grape, which is the most planted in the Marche region and Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is the second largest DOC in the country.
In third place is the Glera grape, responsible for the production of Prosecco, one of the most famous sparkling wine, the most productive DOC in Italy. Then comes the Pinot Grigio grape, with great international success, mainly in the United States. Together, they represent 23% of the total planted area, which leaves us with 77% of the grape varieties to be discovered.
Here we have the top five of most planted grapes in Italy
In hectares
1.- Sangiovese 52,200 ha or 8%
2.- Montepulciano 28,600 ha or 4%
3.- Glera 27,690 ha or 4%
4.- Pinot Grigio 26,900 or 4%
5.- Merlot 20,700 ha or 3%
Source: OIV 2017
