Wine in Ernest Hemingway’s novels isn’t just a prop—it is tied to the culture, geography, and mood of the scenes and serves as a metaphor for companionship, solace, and the joy of simple pleasures.

I thought it would be fun to share passages from his novels in which he mentions Italian wines. Below you will find references to specific wines as well as Italian wine in general.

Italy is home to some of the world’s most renowned wines, each with its own personality, depth, and flair—just like the twelve astrological signs. Whether you’re a bold and fiery Aries or a mysterious and intense Scorpio, there’s an Italian wine that perfectly matches your cosmic energy. Read on to find out which Italian wine best represents your zodiac sign.

Liguria — the stretch of Italy that runs from the French border in the west to the edge of Tuscany in the east — is known first and foremost for the five perched seaside villages of Cinque Terre, as well as film-set favorite, Portofino. Venture inland from the coast, however, and you’ll find villages overflowing with charm, tradition and even a few quirky stories to tell. Here are five of the best.

As much as I am happy to enjoy a good Barolo or Chianti, Italy offers so much more. I’m really happy with the list below and hope you have fun wine hunting!

There’s no question that good food is one of the key attractions of any visitor to the Bel Paese. But only one region is referred to as the stomach of Italy: Emilia Romagna. Let’s dig into some of the region’s tastiest delights.

Milan has always been known for its aperitivo, which traditionally was a way to “open the stomach” with an alcoholic beverage – typically something with herbs that was slightly medicinal in flavor – before dinner. In this northern Italian city, it had evolved into a ritual. Read on to discover top bars for Milan’s famous aperitivo hour!

Think Italy, and endless lunches in the countryside spring to mind, with large dining tables set under grape-covered pergolas that protect diners from the Tuscan sun. Though it’s true that Italian cuisine is mostly a seated affair, street food delicacies abound across the peninsula, going far beyond your usual slice of pizza al taglio or the good old panino al prosciutto. Here is a list of all-time favorites.

The Veneto region is, of course, known for its most famous city — Venice. But this corner of Northern Italy is also practically synonymous with one name: Andrea Palladio. The renowned architect, active in the 16th century, or during Italy’s late Renaissance era, developed a style that became known as Palladianism.

Here, we’ve rounded up some of the most important of these that are accessible to visitors and that best illustrate the famed architect’s journey to full-on Palladian style.

Here are the best restaurants, hotels and activities you can enjoy in each of the lakes to help you navigate your next big adventure to the Lakes District of Italy.

Visit mainland Italy during its peak season and you’ll push your way to the front of the Trevi Fountain or queue for hours for a boat taxi around Venice. Or, you could spend your time away from the crowds, exploring Italy’s most beautiful islands. Once you’ve seen this side of Italy, you’ll appreciate the country like never before. Read on for our top spots.