Viva Italia! Viva Vino!

Wine Spectator's newest issue came out today and the timing could not have been better. It's all about Italy and the tremendous ingredients, meals and most importantly, fantastic wines coming from the boot.

The Spectator says, "There's a reason why people refer to the Italian way of being as "la dolce vita"-the sweet life. Of course people work hard there, and there are problems to solve. But Italians seem to have mastered the art of taking life one day at a time, and enjoying every minute. It's no wonder that wine is such an integral part of the Italian lifestyle. Enjoying a glass of wine and a home cooked meal with family and friends-the Italian way-is guaranteed to reduce stress and increase the pleasure of life."

Since this article is so timely and I could not agree more, I want to make life even easier for you and point out 5 extreme values that we have for you from the different regions of Italy.

Si Soave $9.95

From the northeast of the country, this light, fresh white wine is perfect as an apertif. Many do not realize that is the most popular type of white wine in Italy! The acidity is really mild, making it a versatile pairing.

Rapitala Nero d'Avola $9.99

A classic, lush red from Sicily showing notes of blackberry fruit, hints of chocolate with a balanced and elegant finish. 90 points and highly rated by Wine and Spirits Magazine! Winner of the "Best Buy" award, too.

Nobillisima Pinot Grigio $8.95

One of the best Pinot Grigio values out there and you can only find it at Central Market. Compares favorably to the big names that you would normally pay twice the amount for. From the Veneto region, this wine over-delivers as a crisp white. It bears hints of white flowers, pear and a sweetness that reminds one of apples. Don't let the price fool you - this is a great Pinot Grigio. It makes me want to say "GRAZIE!" to those smart Italians.

Rosso Pesce $9.95

From the heart of Tuscany, this affordable classic Tuscan red is powered by the Sangiovese grape making it a fruity, well-rounded red perfect for your favorite hearty italian dish. This is what you serve with giant bowl of pasta covered in homemade Bolognese or alongside that crispy Neopolitan-style pizza topped with chopped salami. This wine is made for Central Market by the famed estate of Castello Vicchiomaggio in Greve, Italy.

Riondo Prosecco $10.95

Prosecco continues to be a hot sparkling wine. If you love bubbles, a hint of sweetness and the perfect way to start a night or even end a great evening, this is the bubbly for you. The famous wine critic Robert Parker of Wine Advocate calls this, "An Amazing Prosecco!" He gave this 90 points and is highly rated. We use it in this Prosecco Bellini Recipe or - more often than not - drink it straight from a flute.

Viva Italia! Viva Vino!- Chris Potestio, Wine Buyer, Central Market Stores