Wine List at Italian Restaurant Fortitude Valley, QLD

Wine is an essential element of Italian cuisine. In this blog, Gemelli writes about the long history and deep cultural roots of winemaking in Italy. Our menu features beloved regional dishes from across Italy, with an award-winning wine list that is carefully curated to complement the flavours of our food. Contact us today to find out why we are one of the best authentic Brisbane Italian restaurants.

Wine in Ancient Rome

The ancient world knew Italy as “Enotria Tellus”, which translates to “the land of wine”. The history of Italian winemaking goes back nearly 2000 years when conquering Greeks entered the region and introduced grapevines to the region. By the 7th century B.C. Tuscany was known for producing the best wine, and all throughout the Roman Empire, Roman wine was valued. Even the enemies of the empire such as the Gauls were known to trade goods for wine, even during wartime.

The fall of the Roman empire saw the decline of local winemaking. It took several centuries for Italian winemaking to stage its resurgence.

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, Italian wine was used for its medicinal properties. Physicians such as Arnaldo di Villanova proposed that wine could be used for therapeutic purposes because of its antiseptic qualities. Wine was widely used in the manufacturing of poultices for treating ailments.

Renaissance to Modern Era

The end of the Middle Ages saw a period of cultural growth and evolution in Italy. With names like Machiavelli, Galileo and Da Vinci rising to prominence, it was clear that Italy’s transformation would extend to every part of society. Wine returned to Italian tables and many patrons of the culinary arts began to take an interest in fine-tuning and standardising winemaking techniques.

Wine at Gemelli

Find out more about the wine list at our Broadbeach location.

NV SIGNOR VINO / Moscato / Riverina, NSW

This highly aromatic and pleasantly sweet wine is effervescent and playful on the palate. We recommend pairing this wine with fresh, salty foods such as goat’s cheese, antipasto or other bright, vibrant dishes that are elevated by this wine that has a bit of a personality.

2021 CANTINE PRA SOAVE ‘OTTO’ / Gargenega / Veneto, IT

This undoubtedly delicious wine is known as a mid-weight white wine with a bouquet of aromas that flow between green apple, citrus, almonds and flowers. We recommend pairing this excellent wine with delicate seafood and poultry, or with savoury, umami rich pasta dishes that benefit from a crisp wine that adds contrast between bites of food.

2021 SANDATI / Vermentino / Sardinia, IT

Sometimes, a wine gives the impression that it was specially made just for seafood and white meats. When poured, the Sandati has a straw golden colour with a greenish tinge. For those who find plain citrus notes commonplace, the minerality of this wine and floral fruitiness adds a depth to the citrus notes which is impossible to ignore.

2020 Langmeil ‘Valley Floor’

A delightfully unique wine, the Langmeil Valley Floor evokes images of dark plums, berries, chocolate and sweetened spice at the very top. Enjoy this deep, complex wine, with its wonderful tannins and full body.

Italian Wine and Food Pairing at Broadbeach Restaurant

Looking for Brisbane Italian restaurants with an excellent wine list? Contact Gemelli today to find out more about how we curate unique wine and food pairing experiences for customers in Brisbane or book a table now.