There is the world of difference between the widely available, mass produced Soave from the plain and Soave Classico from the hills. The Veneto and the ‘Tre Veneze’, the states of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, are the home of eminently drinkable, fresh single varietals made from Pinot Grigio, Pinot Bianco and Chardonnay.

2005 was a difficult vintage throughout Italy. 2004 A good vintage with fresh whites and balanced reds in the north. 2003 is generally good, especially for reds from Tuscany and the South. 2002 was a difficult year but good early to mid-term drinking wines have been made. Piemonte was particularly good in 2001, Tuscany was mixed and the south very good. 2000 is generally good particularly in the south. 1999 variable but good Nebbiolo in Piemonte and some Chiantis are as good as in 1997. 1998 has seen good quality from Piemonte and Tuscany districts, a bit more variable than in 1997 where quality is extremely high with long-term reds. 1996 has also produced excellent wines for the mid to long-term. 1995 harvest was very successful although quantities are low and Tuscany has made some superb wines.