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Vermentino – a grape variety from which light white, pink still and sparkling wines are made. It grows mainly in Italy on the island of Sardinia, where it is known as Pigato, Corsica and in the Piedmont region, where it is called Favorita. Also found in the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region in southern France.
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Origin theories for Vermentino
The classification confusion mentioned above is due to the uncertainty of the genetic and geographic origin of Vermentino. Some believe that he came to Italy from Spain, others believe the opposite. Another theory is that it arrived in the Mediterranean from the Middle East via Greece. Fortunately, such discussions and disagreements are purely academic in every sense of the word. It is important where the variety is grown today and what kind of wine it tastes like.
What to try
The most famous wine from Vermentino is the DOCG Vermentino di Gallura, 10,5% (the only Sardinian-made wine with this label) and Vermentino di Gallura Superiore, 14%. This is one category.
You should also pay attention to DOCG Sienda, Piras, Mavriana, Graniti.
The second is represented by Vermentino di Sardegna DOC, 10,5%.
Characteristics of the Vermentino variety
The fruits are amber-yellow in color and hang in pyramidal clusters. The vines are often grown on slopes facing the sea, where they are exposed to sunlight and evening breezes.
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Wine profile from Vermentino
Vermentino has a citrus and mineral profile. The wine was conceived as a refreshing dry without oak shades, with a moderate alcohol content.
The variety is grown in large quantities in the south of France. Its wines are more lively and playful than those made from more full-bodied varieties (Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Viognier).
The final cost of the product is low. Sauvignon Blanc lovers will appreciate it, because the taste is just as multifaceted and complex. This is due to the high levels of phenols, which contribute to a subtle bitterness in the aftertaste. It is compared to green almonds.
A glass of classic Sardinian Vermentino brings bright aromas of pear, white peach, lime and grapefruit with subtle notes of citrus zest.
The color is light golden with green tints.
On the palate the wine is dry and somewhat oily with citrus, mineral and salty undertones.
The aftertaste is saturated, in bitterness reminiscent of grapefruit and almonds.
2 Vermentino styles
One is deeper and creamier, the other is lighter, flowerier and spicier. The difference occurs after alcoholic fermentation, when the wine is in the tank. At this point, the winemaker may add a special kind of bacteria called Oenococcus oeni. They feed on the tart malic acid in their drink (green apples have the same) and produce small amounts of a special aromatic compound called diacetyl. The process is called malolactic fermentation. Diacetyl has a creamy and rich taste, leaving a buttery feel on the tongue.
Differences by region
In Sardinia, the wines are sparkling, citrus. Most of the grapes are on the island of Corsica, where the high-altitude hot climate provides drinks with heady floral aromas. In the north of Tuscany and in Liguria, the alcohol content is lower, there are minerals and sourness in the taste. The further south, the more fruity in character.
How and with what to drink Vermentino wine
Serve chilled at 8-10°C. Harmonizes with chicken, seafood, such as fish, crustaceans, octopus, shellfish, vegetables. Cheeses include mozzarella, goat cheese, ricotta, feta.
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Relevance: 06.04.2020
Tags: wine and vermouth