Sicily

It's hard to think of an Italian meal without thinking of a wine to enjoy it with, and the food and wine in Italy could arguably be two of the top reasons to travel there. Pairing your meal with the perfect wine makes the dining experience that much more enjoyable so to take the guesswork out of what will pair best, the following is a brief guide to some of Italy's most renowned regional dishes, spanning from north to south, along with a few recommended wine pairings for each. Whether you're dining at an Italian restaurant at home or exploring local eateries in Italy, this guide will help you avoid becoming overwhelmed by extensive wine lists if you are unsure what to look for. In Italy, feel free to also ask the waiter or sommelier for recommendations on what to drink with your food. They are likely to suggest a wine from the region you are in, not only to help support local wine growers and producers, but also so you have the chance to experience the authentic flavors of the area through both the food and the wine. ⭐️PRO TIP - While dining out, if you plan to enjoy wine with your meal but haven't decided on what you will be eating yet, start with a glass of sparkling wine. This way, you'll have something to sip on while reviewing the food and wine menus and making your choice. Sparkling wine is an excellent palate cleanser to prep you for a savory meal, and Italy has some of the best. Buon Apetito!

Can’t decide where to go in Italy, let’s change that! Whether you would like to start from the northern city of lovers, Venice, or the beautiful southern island, Sicily, here's all the towns and cities you wouldn't want to misss out on.

Let's get one thing straight: Cheese is love, and while the French reign supreme in this kingdom! The Italians can hold their own pretty bloody well. Living in Italy, particularly in Bra- the proud home of Italy's ultimate cheese festival" Bra Cheese" - I have drowned myself in this cheesy paradise. This festival was founded by the slow food movement (which has its HQ right in Bra) it is a must for any cheese aficionado. The following festivals, Pro-locos and Sarga' are generally put on by local communities and often coincide with the celebration of patron saints and similar holidays. There are plenty more than just these, but from my experience, these are worth your visit. Now let's talk about the cream of the crop in the Italian cheese world. You cannot forget "the king" Reggiano Parmesan, a staple that deserves a permanent spot in your fridge. On the other end of the spectrum and country, there's Buffalo Mozzarella, a soft and slightly tart delight that screams summer. We cannot overlook Gorgonzola, with its range of mild and cream to bold and spicy. Crowd-pleasing favourite Ricotta and arguably the most versatile Italian cheese. A personal favourite, Taleggio, this northern Italian cheese especially when a little over ripe, is an unforgettable as a passionate date. Pecorino (the proper stuff - sheep's milk) deserves a mention - when it's good it's bloody fantastic! Get out of the main Italian cities and experience these wonderful countryside areas and the produce and producers that make them, the next time you are in Italy. "Blessed are the cheesemakers" indeed!