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For centuries, Vernaccia grapes have thrived in the Tuscan sun, their history stretching back centuries all the way back to Medieval times. Beloved by royalty during the Renaissance, these grapes produce white wines renowned for their crisp, ripping acidity and refreshing characteristics. The Gattavecchi family, with their esteemed Cantina Gattavecchi winery, are dedicated stewards of this noble grape, crafting exceptional expressions of Vernaccia like their 2021 vintage we’re about to explore.
Vernaccia wine is a white wine from the San Gimignano region of Tuscany that is made from the Vernaccia grape, which is native to the region. These wines are known for their crisp, floral taste and a touch of minerality. Many wine lovers will pick up notes of almond, green apple, and citrus with hints of herbaceousness. The characteristic that Vernaccia wine is known for is its mouth-puckering acidity.
Cantina Gattavecchi is family-owned winery in Montepulciano that produces a range of wines including Montepulciano’s signature wine that shares its name with the grape it is crafted from, as well as a Chianti, Super Tuscan, Spumante, Cortona, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, and the Vernaccia that we review here.
The Gattavecchis have been making wine for over a century, but they didn’t acquire their current Montepulciano winery until 1958 when they acquired an ancient winery called Simoneschi Baroncelli. What’s unique about this particular winery is that the structure of the cellar dates back to the 13th Century when it was part of an old monastery.
Making wine hasn’t always been easy for the Gattavecchis. During the chaos of the World Wars, bombing completely destroyed the family’s winery, and the family patriarch, Vincenzo, had his entire business destroyed. It would take another generation to rebuild what was lost, but once stability returned to Italy, the family was able to reestablish themselves. Today, winemaker Luca Gattavecchi is a fourth generation winemaker leading Cantina Gattavecchi.
If you visit Cantina Gattavecchi’s Tuscan estate, be sure to come with an appetite. The winery has its own restaurant that serves both winery guests and visitors.
Vernaccia wines have some pretty distinct characteristics. Most sommeliers describe these white wines as dry, crisp, acidic, full-bodied, and floral. Sippers will also pick up an abundance of citrus, melon, and salinity. It’s also worth mentioning that some Vernaccia wines can have an almost “pith-like” aftertaste.
The first thought that came to mind when we tried the 2021 Gattavecchi Vernaccia Di San Gimignano was, ‘this wine would go great with oysters’. The acidity of this wine seems never-ending, which makes it a great pairing wine for all types of seafood, as well as poultry and summer salads.
Italy
San Gimignano
Vernaccia
13
Luca Gattavecchi
49–55°F / 9–12°C
Chardonnay
N/A
Now
Cantina Gattavecchi
This 2021 Gattavecchi Vernaccia Di San Gimignano is a pale gold color in the glass with bright clarity. On the nose, the wine offers robust aromas. You’ll find a mix of ripe stone fruits like pear and melon, along with some tropical lychee notes. Hints of citrusy lemon and peach add a touch of freshness. The alcohol presence is also noticeable on the nose, but blends seamlessly with the other notes.
The palate reveals flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and melon, mirroring the aromas, and the acidity is off-the-charts. Despite this, you’re going to find a very balanced wine, thanks to the medium-bodied profile. Overall, this Vernaccia is well-balanced, with all elements working together harmoniously.
We love trying new grape varieties and really enjoyed this 2021 Gattavecchi Vernaccia Di San Gimignano. If you’re planning on digging into some oysters, shellfish, or grilled fish dishes this summer, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Vernaccia wine.
