Lombardy

At first glance it's difficult to believe that Lombardy, the most industrialized Italian region, has a varied and prolific viticulture. But the geography of the region in itself indicates that agriculture is another important factor in the region's productivity. Vines extend from the Alps and the Valtellina to the Apennines and the slopes of Oltrepò Pavese, which is the largest production zone. There is an extensive variety of grapes grown in the region. The list includes Groppello (the only local variety), Barbera and Nebbiolo.

Wine Trail-From north to south
* In Chiuro stop at Nino Negri at Via Ghibellini 3 (tel. 0342482521), built in the 15th century Quadrio Castle.
* Visit La Brugherata in Scanzorosciate at Via Medolago 47 (tel. 035655202). Moscato di Scanzo Passito is produced here, and the vineyards are surrounded by Mediterranean plants such as myrtle, strawberry trees and rosemary.
* In Capriolo, visitors have access to the cellars where sparkling wines are fermented and aged at Ricci Curbastro at Via Andro 37.
* You can spend a romantic evening in Adro at the Cornaleto Agroturismo. The Farmhouse is also a winery and the delicious wine that they produce is sampled at the dinner table. Contadi Castaldi winery is also nearby at Via Colzano 32.
* Erbusco is the heart of the Franciacorta area and is a wonderful wine town. Wine tastings and sales take place at the Cantina di Franciacorta at Via Iseo 56 and at Boschi at Via Iseo 44/a.
* Rovato's prestigious local winery Conti Terzi at Via Sopramura 8 should not be missed.
* La Cantinetta is a great meeting place in the center of Milan at Via Santa Maria Segreta 6 (tel. 0286461193). It specializes in the wines of the Monferrato (Piedmont).
* Don't miss Borgo alla Quercia, one of the best wineries in the Garda Classica area. It is located in Calvagese della Riviera on Via Nobile Ugo De Zinis (tel. 030601001).
* In Casteggio, visit Frecciarossa at Via Vigorelli 141 (tel. 038304465). Reisling Renano DOC and the winery's pride, Villa Odero red, are served.

Festivals and Culinary Events
* July: Canneto Pavese-Wine Show
* August: Montu Beccaria-Agosto Montuese, 10 days of local wine festivities in the second half of the month
* September: Lugana-Grape Harvest Festival
* November: Rovescala-Festival of New Wine and Chisola