Those who have found a vacation rental in Tuscany and are planning a trip to the region, are probably expecting to eat a lot of great food but they should also be excited for all of the wines that they will be able to try. I've heard many say that the Italians keep the best of their wines for themselves and travelling in Italy allows you to tap into that precious supply for yourself and see what you've been missing out on.
We have discussed wines and vineyards and wine shops on this blog on several occasions and thought it only fitting to put together a guide to the wines of Tuscany; the ones you won't want to miss and where to find them.
3. Vin Santo
Vin Santo is made in many parts of Italy, but the best comes from Tuscany. There are three recognized DOC’s in Tuscany for Vin Santo: Vin Santo del Chianti (created in 1997), Vin Santo del Chianti Classico (1995) and Vin Santo di Montepulciano (1996).
We have discussed wines and vineyards and wine shops on this blog on several occasions and thought it only fitting to put together a guide to the wines of Tuscany; the ones you won't want to miss and where to find them.
3. Vin Santo
Vin Santo is made in many parts of Italy, but the best comes from Tuscany. There are three recognized DOC’s in Tuscany for Vin Santo: Vin Santo del Chianti (created in 1997), Vin Santo del Chianti Classico (1995) and Vin Santo di Montepulciano (1996).
Meaning literally “saint wine”, it dates back to at least the Middle Ages. Made from a blend of white grapes, specifically Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia, with the occasional use of Grechetto, there is both a white and red version, called Occhio di Pernice. The best varieties are made using old and traditional methods and all require at least three years of barrel ageing. A great gamble as you're not guaranteed how such long labour will pay off, it is an expensive but famous wine. With raisin and toffee notes, it is traditionally paired with desserts.
4. Carmignano
Carmignano is a Tuscan wine region centered on the city of Carmignano, that is located about 10 miles northwest of Florence. Praised since the Middle Ages, it was a favourite of Cosimo III de' Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany. Lesser-known but beloved and considered truly excellent, it is a must-try! A medium bodied wine with chocolate notes, it ages well. Just find a luxury villa in Carmignano and come try this gem of a wine for yourself.
Of course, there are many more wonderful Tuscan wines to enjoy while exploring the region, so be sure to read on to the rest of the series for our other picks.
4. Carmignano
Carmignano is a Tuscan wine region centered on the city of Carmignano, that is located about 10 miles northwest of Florence. Praised since the Middle Ages, it was a favourite of Cosimo III de' Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany. Lesser-known but beloved and considered truly excellent, it is a must-try! A medium bodied wine with chocolate notes, it ages well. Just find a luxury villa in Carmignano and come try this gem of a wine for yourself.
Of course, there are many more wonderful Tuscan wines to enjoy while exploring the region, so be sure to read on to the rest of the series for our other picks.
