Italy makes more wine than any other country on earth, from more than 500 native grape varieties. That's wonderful news for drinkers — and slightly terrifying when you're staring at a wine list. This guide covers the essential styles on the Santino's Bondi wine list, so you can order with confidence.

Sparkling: Prosecco

Italy's most famous sparkler comes from the Veneto hills. Made from the Glera grape, Prosecco is fresh, gently fruity and lower in pressure than Champagne — which makes it dangerously easy to drink. It's the backbone of the Aperol Spritz and the perfect way to start any meal.

Whites: Pinot Grigio and Vermentino

Pinot Grigio from Friuli in Italy's north-east is crisp, dry and citrusy — the classic seafood partner. Vermentino, grown by the sea in Sardinia, adds a saline, herbal edge that tastes like the Mediterranean itself. Either is superb with our calamari fritti or seafood linguine.

Reds: from easy-drinking to profound

  • Chianti Classico (Tuscany). Sangiovese-based, with bright cherry fruit, firm acidity and a savoury finish. The ultimate food wine — born to be drunk with tomato-based pasta and pizza.
  • Barbera d'Alba (Piedmont). Juicy, low-tannin and generous. If you usually drink Shiraz, start here.
  • Nero d'Avola (Sicily). Dark, sun-ripened fruit with a soft texture — brilliant with grilled meats and rich ragù.
  • Amarone della Valpolicella (Veneto). Made from grapes dried for months before pressing, Amarone is powerful, velvety and unforgettable. A special-occasion wine for slow sipping.

Three simple pairing rules

Italians pair wine by instinct, but three rules cover almost everything: what grows together goes together (regional dishes with regional wines); match the weight (light dishes with light wines, rich dishes with structured reds); and acid loves acid (tomato sauces sing with high-acid reds like Chianti). When in doubt at the bar, just ask — our team loves a pairing challenge.

Start your wine journey at the beach

The best way to learn wine is to drink it curiously. Join us for a glass at golden hour — the full wine & bar list is served daily from midday at 94 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach. Salute!