While Burgundy may be considered the Mount Everest of wine culture's intricacies, it has nothing on Italy. Indeed, France as a whole can claim over 200 grape varieties planted, but that pales in comparison to the estimated 2,000 found in Italy. Behemoth varietals such as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Pinot Grigio might lead the pack in name recognition (deservedly so), but the rising stars now-a-days are the regional varietals of Montepulciano, Sagrantino, Frappato, Verdicchio, Garganega and many hundreds more. Italy embodies the joy found on the never-ending journey that is wine.