Italy is one of the world’s most diverse wine countries, with 20 regions, hundreds of grape varieties, and thousands of distinct wine styles. Yet many of these wines remain little known outside their local areas.
A Year in Italian Wine is a monthly tasting series by Fizzy Happiness, designed to explore Italy’s regions one by one — focusing on regional identity, winemaking tradition, and wines chosen for clarity, balance, and character.
Why Italy’s Wine Landscape Matters
Italy cultivates more indigenous grape varieties than any other country in the world. From alpine vineyards in the north to sun-drenched coastal hills in the south, climate, soil, and tradition shape radically different wine styles.
This diversity makes Italy one of the most underestimated wine countries in terms of regional depth. Many bottles available internationally represent only a small fraction of what is produced locally.
The purpose of this series is to provide context and access — allowing guests to taste wines that reflect place, not just brand or price point.
How the Tastings Work
Each month focuses on one Italian wine region, presented through a guided tasting of six wines. The selection typically includes a mix of classic regional styles and lesser-known expressions, offering a broad view of how geography, grape choice, and production methods influence the final wine.
Tastings are hosted in an informal, accessible format that encourages questions, comparison, and conversation rather than formal instruction.
All wines tasted are available to purchase following the session, allowing guests to continue their exploration at home.
A Regional Journey Through Italy
Over the course of the year, the series moves through a wide range of Italian regions, including both established and emerging wine areas. This approach highlights the contrast between:
- Alpine and coastal climates
- Indigenous and international grape varieties
- Traditional and modern winemaking styles
- Sparkling, white, red, and rosé wines
The aim is not to present a “best of” list, but to show how regional character shapes the glass.
Where the Tastings Take Place
A Year in Italian Wine is hosted at UNDICI in Old Amersham, Fizzy Happiness’ Italian wine bar and curated bookshop.
The setting is designed for tasting and conversation, providing a calm space for regional exploration without the formality of traditional wine education environments.
Who the Series Is For
These tastings are intended for:
- Guests who enjoy wine and want to understand it better
- People interested in Italian culture and regional traditions
- Hospitality professionals and trade visitors
- Anyone curious about wines beyond familiar labels and styles
No prior knowledge is required — only an interest in discovery.
Fizzy Happiness & Regional Wine Curation
Fizzy Happiness is a UK-based specialist importer and retailer of Prosecco Superiore DOCG and Italian wines, working closely with independent, family-run producers.
The wines featured in the tastings reflect the same approach used across the online shop and Fizzy Happiness venues: a focus on origin, small production, and regional expression rather than volume or brand recognition.
Find Upcoming Tastings
Details of upcoming regions, dates, and booking information for A Year in Italian Wine are available on the Fizzy Happiness website.