LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
APPELATIONS
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC offers a testament to the region's rich viticultural history. Montepulciano's unique terroir, characterized by its rolling hills, temperate climate, and well-draining soils, provides an ideal environment for grape cultivation. Its position, shielded by the surrounding mountains and caressed by soft breezes, ensures the grapes reach optimal maturity, achieving a perfect balance of sugar, acidity, and aromatic complexity.
At the forefront of Montepulciano's grape varieties stands Sangiovese, the star red grape. Known for its versatility and depth, Sangiovese lends itself to both structured reds and the cherished dessert wine, Vin Santo. However, it's the white grape varieties that traditionally dominate Vin Santo's composition. Grechetto, with its notes of fresh orchard fruits, intertwines harmoniously with the floral and honeyed characters of Malvasia. Trebbiano, another white grape variety, contributes a refreshing acidity and lightness to the blend, ensuring that each sip of Vin Santo di Montepulciano is a journey of nuanced flavors.
Though Vin Santo is often referred to as 'holy wine', its sanctity is not just in its name but in its tradition. The grapes are meticulously selected and dried on straw mats to concentrate their flavors before being vinified. The result is a golden-hued nectar, emblematic of the Tuscan sun and the dedication of its producers. For wine enthusiasts, a taste of Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC is an invitation to savor a piece of Tuscany's soul.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
The Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC, located in the Tuscany wine region, covers the territory of the municipality of Montepulciano in the province of Siena, excluding the flat area of Valdichiana.
The region has a Mediterranean climate, with higher temperatures during July and August, while in the following period, there is a drop in temperature, which favours the development of aroma in the grapes. Rainfall usually reaches an annual average of 690 mm, except in the south, where the average is 740 mm. Rainfall tends to be heaviest in October, while summers are rather dry.
Regarding soils, in the Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC mainly sandy-clay soils predominate.
Most Planted Red Grape Varieties: Sangiovese
Most Planted White Grape Varieties: Grechetto, Malvasia, Trebbiano
The Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC region in Tuscany, Italy, unveils a captivating trio of wines that embody the essence of time-honored winemaking traditions. Each variety—Vin Santo, Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice, and Riserva—offers a distinctive narrative that unfolds through the symphony of grape varieties and the patient aging process.
Vin Santo, a true embodiment of craftsmanship, is composed of a minimum of 70% Grechetto, Malvasia, and/or Trebbiano Toscano, harmoniously combined with other authorized grapes. This sweet nectar of the gods undergoes a minimum of 3 years of aging in oak barrels, allowing the flavors to intertwine and mellow into a symphony of richness and complexity.
Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice, a rare gem, reveals its allure through a base of at least 50% Sangiovese, complemented by other authorized grape varieties. Patiently aged for a minimum of 6 years in oak barrels, this "Eye of the Partridge" wine delights with its seductive hue and enchanting aromas, offering an experience that is as intriguing as it is captivating.
The Riserva variety, a testament to dedication, is crafted from a foundation of at least 70% Grechetto, Malvasia, and/or Trebbiano Toscano, alongside other authorized grapes. A minimum of 5 years in oak barrels transforms this elixir into a masterpiece of refined elegance and depth, embodying the very soul of the region's winemaking heritage.
The Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC region's commitment to aging is a tribute to the transformative power of time. As these wines mature gracefully within the confines of oak barrels, they develop layers of character, unveiling intricate nuances that capture the spirit of the land and the artistry of the winemaker. Whether sipped as a dessert wine, a rare indulgence, or a special occasion toast, each variety within the Vin Santo lineage offers a glimpse into the heart of Tuscan viticulture and the allure of ancient traditions.
Copyright © 2024 Vinerra Corp.
