Vermentino
The Vermentino is a much-appreciated white grape variety, found mainly in the coastal regions of the Mediterranean. Its origin is debated, but it is thought to come from the Iberian peninsula or from Liguria, from where it then spread to Sardinia, Tuscany and Corsica. Today it is also grown in some areas of southern France.
Characteristics of the grape variety
- Vigour: It is a vigorous grape variety that adapts well to the poor, sandy soils typical of coastal areas.
- Climate: It prefers warm, breezy climates, benefiting from the sea breeze that helps keep the grapes healthy.
- Ripening: It tends to ripen relatively late, allowing a good balance between acidity and sugars to develop.
Organoleptic profile
Vermentino produces fresh, aromatic wines, with characteristics that vary according to the terroir and the winemaking techniques:- Colour: Straw yellow with pale green highlights.
- Aromas: Floral notes (white flowers), fruity ones (white peach, citrus) and sometimes herbaceous and mineral hints. In the more structured wines, aromas of dried fruit and nuts and of spices can come through.
- Palate: Fresh, savoury and mineral, with good acidity. With longer ageing, it can take on more body and complexity.
Production areas
- Liguria: In the Riviera Ligure di Ponente, where it is known as Pigato.
- Sardinia: It is the region’s signature grape variety, above all in the appellation Vermentino di Gallura DOCG.
- Tuscany: Grown on the coast and on the island of Elba, under the appellation Vermentino di Toscana IGT.
- Corsica: Known as Vermentinu, is highly appreciated in Corsican wines.
- France: In Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon.
Food pairings
Vermentino, thanks to its freshness and minerality, pairs perfectly with:- Fish and seafood dishes.
- Light starters and salads.
- Fresh, delicate cheeses.
- Mediterranean dishes, such as pasta alle vongole or seafood risotto.
Vermentino: My personal top three
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1
Manzanile 2023 - Giuseppe Gabbas
- Type: Vino Bianco
- Region: Italy, Nuoro, Sardinia
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2
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3
Tancaré Vermentino di Gallura DOCG 2023 - Giogantinu
- Type: Vino Bianco
- Region: Gallura, Italy, Sardinia
All those I have tried
