Episode 170: Why Wine-Lovers (and Everyone Else) Are Obsessed With Italy
Jul 8, 2024
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Andrea Lonardi and Jessica Dupuy discuss 'Italianality' in wine culture, highlighting the essence of Italian identity, diverse grape varieties, climate change impact, and the evolution of Italian wine excellence. They explore publishing goals, the significance of Italian wine, and Andrea's philosophy showcased on AndreaLonardi.com.
Italianity focuses on the uniqueness of Italian wine, emphasizing climate impact and common soul across regions.
Italian winemakers are shifting towards embracing their heritage, showcasing pride, and authenticity in winemaking.
Deep dives
The Concept of Italianity in Wine
Italianity, a philosophy introduced by Master of Wine Andrea Lenardi and journalist Jessica Dupuis, focuses on the unique essence of Italian wine. Italianity emphasizes the influence of climate change on viticulture, the shift from emulating French styles to embracing Italian identity, and the recognition of a common soul in Italian wines from various regions. Through the concept of Italianity, a deeper understanding of Italian wines' color, aromas, taste structure, and the spine connecting grape varieties across regions is explored.
Evolution of Italian Wine Philosophy
The philosophy of Italian wines has transitioned from trying to replicate Bordeaux to asserting unique Italian identity. Regions like Barolo have played a crucial role in exemplifying this shift, with wines like Barolo and Sangiovese embodying the essence of Italianity. The younger generation of Italian winemakers is embracing their heritage and regional diversity, moving away from the sense of inferiority felt towards other wine regions.
The Shift in Italian Wine Perception
As Italian winemakers break away from the French influence and embrace their unique Italian character, a new era of pride and identity emerges. Producers are focusing on expressing the soul of Italy in their wines, reflecting regional diversity and authenticity. This shift signifies a move towards genuine Italian expression in winemaking.
Future of Italian Wine Philosophy
The upcoming book 'Italianality' by Andrea Lenardi and Jessica Dupuis aims to delve deeper into the philosophical identity of Italian wines. Expected to release in fall 2025, the book will explore the cultural and regional diversity within Italian winemaking and showcase the evolving philosophy that emphasizes authentic Italian character and terroir-driven expressions.
In this episode, we explore the concept of "Italianality" with newly minted Master of Wine Andrea Lonardi and journalist Jessica Dupuy. The pair are writing a book that explores and explains the subject and why it has never been more important—not just to Italy, but to the world. Together, they seek to distill the beauty, culture, history, food, wine and regional differences found throughout the country via stories with winemakers, chefs, cultural icons and more.
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