by Courtney Schiessl

Who doesn't dream of taking an Italian getaway in the summertime? Days strolling through the piazza, evenings spent with a glass al fresco, and sunsets over the vineyards – it's enough to start Googling "last minute flights to Florence." But those who can't live out their Under the Tuscan Sun fantasies can still have an Italian-inspired summer staycation with the country's many reds that are fit for warm-weather drinking.

With several hundred grape varieties, Italy could fill a wine rack (and then some!) with its summer-appropriate wines. The high natural acidity in most Italian reds makes them perfect with a slight chill, and the diversity within these wine styles means that there's a summer red for everyone. While the list could go on and on (Barbera and Freisa and Fumin, oh my!), here are the top five red grapes to seek out and discover while the mercury continues to soar. Best of all, it isn't necessary to pack these five wines up when autumn rolls in; the versatility of these grapes extends their life into the cooler months as well. Plus, there's sure to be an Indian summer hiding around the corner.

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Source: http://vinepair.com/