Easily one of the best wine producing countries in the world, Italy has been doing it now for some 4,000 years, and in that albeit short time frame they have commanded the skills required to handle over 650 unique varieties. Known around the world as the masters of well-known styles such as Barolo, Chianti and Prosecco - just to name a few - the choices are endless.

While we continue to make ourselves warm and cozy, with the New Zealand winter still with us but on its way towards spring, we can pretend to be on the other side of the world where the weather is currently warmer.

In the northeast of Veneto, Prosecco and Pinot Grigio reign supreme. Further south in Tuscany, the sun shines like nowhere else, creating the perfect environment for Chianti and Brunello Di Montalcino (not to forget the more well-known varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot). Towards the south, Puglia is the perfect place for Primitivo and Negroamaro; with a delicious bowl of homemade pasta, how could you argue?

The Piedmont region produces world-class Barolos and Moscato d’Asti to go with those after dinner treats. For those of us looking for a mid-winter white, Arneis and Gavi are the local go-to; and while we dream of warmer days, the Abruzzo region offers mouthwatering Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wines while hunkering down during those rainy nights.

Spoilt for choice for variety and price, Italy offers something for everyone.