Vernaccia di San Gimignano

by Jon Fiume
May 1, 2007

Fourteen towers, narrow, cobblestone streets, a sunny day, and a glass of Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Just another relaxing day in the Italian town of San Gimignano. Little San Gimignano located less than a hour south of Florence is a tourist destination with its medieval tower skyline, quaint gift shops, and the famous white wine Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The towers which once numbered over 60 were constructed both to demonstrate wealth as well as protection. Today, the 14 towers remaining create a mid-ages feel that is simply charming. Driving up the hill to San Gimignano and one cannot miss the Vernaccia grapes growing upon the rich mineral hill slopes. It is Tuscany in its finest.

Besides being the standard wine consumed for centuries, San Gimignano claimed the majority of its Vernaccia fame when this white wine received one of the first D.O.C. status (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) awarded by the Italian government. D.O.C. status signifies that the wine has met stringent government controls from where the grape was grown to how the wine was processed. Vernaccia di San Gimignano grapes yield a wine that is clean, crisp, and with a slightly nutty or almond like flavor. You will not find them to be oakey at all and is some cases no oak will be present as modern production processes allow for the aging to take place in stainless steel. In addition, like any other type of wine, expect all Vernaccias to taste a little different therefore the fun lies in exploration. Enjoy!

Featured wines of the month:

Ca' del Vispo, 2004 Vernaccia di San Gimignano, $14.99

This Vernaccia di San Gimignano comes off a little bitter and tart at first but tends to settle down with a little breathing. It is crisp, nutty, minerally, and slightly acidic. Its finish is dry and enjoyable. It represents the essence of San Gimignano, a little edgy with all of the dominating towers, but quaint at the core. It has a slightly higher alcohol content at 13%. Enjoy this wine with a light pasta dish, or a nice selection of cheese and crackers.

Teruzzi & Puthod 2004 Vernaccia di San Gimignano, $15.99

One of the first Vernaccia di San Gimignano wines that I tried in the United States. Its straw-colored body yields a taste that is crisp, refreshing, offering a slight hint of pear. As the summer approaches, this is a great alternative to other commonly consumed white wines. This particular Vernaccia can be consumed solo or with summer salads and light appetizers.