There are four categories of risotto rice, that are characterised by their size, shape and length: they range from comune (the shortest), to semifino, fino, and superfino (the longest). There are numerous varieties, too. Arborio is the best known variety outside Italy, but the more expensive Carnaroli and Vialone Nano are the most highly regarded in the country. Other lesser known varieties include Roma, Baldo, Ribe and Originario.
