Vermentino: an overview of the variety, what to try, wine profile, differences by region
Vermentino - grape variety used to produce light white, rosé, still and sparkling wine. 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.
Theories of the origin of Vermentino
The above-mentioned confusion in classification is caused by the uncertainty of the genetic and geographical origin of the Vermentino variety. Some believe that it came to Italy from Spain, while others believe the opposite. Another theory is that it came to the Mediterranean from the Middle East via Greece. Fortunately, such discussions and disagreements are purely academic in nature - in every sense of the word. It is important where the variety is grown today and what the wine tastes like.
What to try
The most famous wines from Vermentino are DOCG Vermentino di Gallura, 10.5% (the only wine with this label produced in Sardinia) 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
Fruits have an amber-yellow color and hang in bunches of pyramidal shape. The vines are often grown on slopes facing the sea, where they are exposed to sunlight and evening breezes.
Profile of Vermentino wine
Vermentino is characterized by a citrus and mineral profile. The wine was conceived as a refreshing dry wine without oak hints, with a moderate alcohol content.
The variety is grown in large quantities in the south of France. Wines made from it are more lively, more playful than those produced from more full-bodied varieties (Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Viognier).
The total cost of the product is low. It will be appreciated by lovers of Sauvignon Blanc, because the taste is just as multifaceted and complex. This is due to the high level of phenols that contribute to the subtle bitterness in the aftertaste. It is compared to green almonds.
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A glass of classic Sardinian Vermentino will give you bright aromas of pear, white peach, lime and grapefruit with subtle notes of citrus zest.
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The color is light golden with green tints.
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On the nose, the wine is dry and slightly oily with citrus, mineral and salty hints.
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The aftertaste is rich, reminiscent of grapefruit and almonds in bitterness.
2 styles of Vermentino
One is deeper and creamier, the other is lighter, more floral and spicy. The difference occurs after alcoholic fermentation, when the wine is in the tank. At this point, the winemaker can add a special type of bacteria called Oenococcus oeni. They feed on the tart malic acid in the beverage (green apples have the same) and produce a small amount of a special flavor compound called diacetyl. The process is called malolactic fermentation. Diacetyl has a creamy and rich taste, leaving an oily sensation on the tongue.
Differences by region
In Sardinia, wines are sparkling, citrusy. Most grapes are grown on the island of Corsica, where the highland hot climate provides drinks with heady floral aromas. In the north of Tuscany and Liguria, the alcohol content is lower, the taste has minerals and sourness. The further south, the more fruity the character.
How and what to drink Vermentino wine with
Serve chilled to 8-10 °C. Harmonizes with chicken, seafood, such as fish, crustaceans, octopus, mollusks, vegetables. Mozzarella, goat cheese, ricotta, feta are suitable cheeses.
Update: 06.04.2020
Category: Wine and Vermouth