Montenidoli Vernaccia di San Gimignano 'Carato' 2017

Country: Italy

Region: Tuscany

Type: White Wine

Grape: Vernaccia

The estate is located just outside of the famed tower city of San Gimignano on the western border of the Chianti zone in Tuscany. The estate dates back to Roman times and there are stories of the Knights Templar utilizing the property for meetings and ceremonies. Owner Elisabetta Fagiuoli and her husband bought the property in the 60’s, bringing it back to life from its abandoned state. The soil is filled with marine fossils and clay, giving the wines their minerality. The couples’ profound respect for the land has always been the focus. 

This Vernaccia is manually harvested, the grapes are then placed in the basket press at the winery. Only the free-run must is used for Carato. The wine is then barrel fermented (neutral barrels) and aged on the lees for 12 months, plus an additional two years before release. The style is reminiscent of aged white Burgundies, though still uniquely the style of this estate.

Aromas of citrus, honey, and candied fruit, along with herbs, lemon peel and almond. Astounding freshness in a mid-weight style that is more about savory complexity and forward fruit.