Chardonnay is cultivated in many italian regions.
The best areas (in the North) produce light bodied unoaked Chardonnays.
Early Italian wine production in Südtirol (Trentino-Alto Adige), often confused Chardonnay with Pinot Blanc. Pinot Blanc was called "Weissburgunder" (White Burgundy) and Chardonnay was called "Gelber Weissburgunder" (Golden White Burgundy).
In the late 20th century, Italy started to produce pure Chardonnay, and in 1984, Chardonnay was granted its first DOC (Denominazione di origine controllata) in Alto Adige.
Most Chardonnay is planted in the north, but it can also be found as south as Sicily.
The north areas produce a light bodied unoaked Chardonnays with noticeable acidity and flavors of citrus, green apple, and pear.
Best Regions:
In Lombardia and Trentino-Alto Adige Chardonnay is used for high quality Sparkling Wines (Franciacorta and Trento DOC).