Many international wine connoisseurs consider Italian reds to be among the best in the world — the equal, if not the superior, of French and California varietals. “I don’t think there’s a better wine grape in the world than Nebbiolo, especially with food,” said Bend’s Ron Lybeck, a former New York sommelier employed at the Ariana Restaurant.

Nebbiolo is only one of many Italian varietals readily available in American markets. Among others, Sangiovese, Valpolicella, Montepulciano, Barbera, Primitivo and Dolcetto may be found in better wine shops and on the wine lists of many fine-dining restaurants.