Vernaccia

Italian wine grape

Vernaccia is a name used for several distinct varieties of wine grapes, as well as the wines produced from them, primarily in Italy. The term "Vernaccia" is believed to derive from the Latin word "vernaculus," meaning "native" or "indigenous," indicating that these grapes are local to the regions where they are grown. Vernaccia wines are known for their unique characteristics and historical significance in Italian viticulture.

Varieties of Vernaccia

Vernaccia di San Gimignano

Vernaccia di San Gimignano

Vernaccia di San Gimignano is perhaps the most famous of the Vernaccia wines. It is a white wine produced in the Tuscan town of San Gimignano, and it was the first Italian wine to be awarded Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) status in 1966. The wine is made from the Vernaccia grape, which is known for its crisp acidity and slightly bitter finish. It is often described as having notes of citrus, almond, and a characteristic minerality.

The production area is limited to the hilly terrain surrounding San Gimignano, and the wine is typically enjoyed young, although some producers experiment with oak aging to add complexity.

Vernaccia di Oristano

Vernaccia di Oristano is a Sardinian wine made from the Vernaccia grape variety native to the island. This wine is distinct from Vernaccia di San Gimignano, as it is typically a fortified wine, similar in style to sherry. It is aged in barrels, often using the "flor" method, which involves a layer of yeast that forms on the surface of the wine, contributing to its unique flavor profile.

Vernaccia di Oristano is known for its nutty, oxidative character, with flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and a hint of salinity. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with local Sardinian cuisine.

Vernaccia Nera

Vernaccia Nera is a red grape variety grown in the Marche region of Italy. It is used to produce a sparkling red wine known as Vernaccia di Serrapetrona. This wine is unique in that it undergoes three fermentations, resulting in a slightly sweet, effervescent wine with flavors of red berries and spices.

Historical Significance

Vernaccia wines have a long history in Italy, with references dating back to the Middle Ages. Vernaccia di San Gimignano, in particular, was praised by poets such as Dante Alighieri and Michelangelo. The wine's historical importance is reflected in its early recognition as a DOC wine, setting a precedent for the classification of Italian wines.

Production and Characteristics

Vernaccia wines are typically characterized by their distinct flavor profiles, which vary depending on the specific variety and region. Common characteristics include:

• Vernaccia di San Gimignano: Crisp acidity, citrus notes, almond, and minerality.
• Vernaccia di Oristano: Nutty, oxidative flavors, dried fruit, and salinity.
• Vernaccia di Serrapetrona: Effervescent, red berries, and spices.

Related Pages

• Italian wine
• Denominazione di Origine Controllata
• San Gimignano
• Sardinia
• Marche