Vermentino 2016
The Wine
The first vintage of Vermentino was 1996. The inspiration behind this wine was the desire to reintroduce one of the indigenous varieties from this part of the Tyrrhenian coast, recognized and appreciated since the 1990’s for its aromatic qualities. Bolgheri’s microclimate is particularly favorable for Vermentino production due to both the territory’s orientation and proximity to the sea which gives the wine pronounced mineral notes, freshness and aromatic qualities.
The Wine
The first vintage of Vermentino was 1996. The inspiration behind this wine was the desire to reintroduce one of the indigenous varieties from this part of the Tyrrhenian coast, recognized and appreciated since the 1990’s for its aromatic qualities. Bolgheri’s microclimate is particularly favorable for Vermentino production due to both the territory’s orientation and proximity to the sea which gives the wine pronounced mineral notes, freshness and aromatic qualities.
Climate
The 2023 growing season in Bolgheri began with mild winter weather and very limited rainfall that caused the vines to break dormancy slightly earlier, beginning on March 20th. Spring brought periods of moderately intense precipitation that required careful vineyard management to keep the vines healthy and vigorous. Beneficial hot, dry weather in the month of July slowed down vegetative growth and provided perfect conditions for veraison and the beginning of the ripening phase. Temperatures in August were consistent with seasonal averages, although from August 20th to the 25th the area was affected by unusual hot and dry winds from the north that caused some episodes of canopy and berry dehydration in the most exposed vineyard parcels. At the end of August, unstable weather moved in from the Atlantic bringing rain showers and refreshing temperatures that restored beneficial conditions allowing the grape to progress through the ripening phase. The month of September was sunny and dry creating ideal conditions for the grapes to reach peak maturity in all vineyard parcels producing fruit of exceptional quality. The grape harvest of Vermentino took place from September 1st through the 20th.
Vinification
Each vineyard parcel was harvested separately, based on the level of maturity of the grapes, aimed at preserving and enhancing the complex territorial characteristics of each individual vineyard block. Upon arrival at the cellars, grapes were destemmed, delicately crushed, and gently pressed. The resulting must was transferred into stainless steel temperature controlled fermentation tanks where alcoholic fermentation took place at a temperature of 16 °C (61 °F). Each individual lot was carefully and systematically evaluated and then blended. Vermentino Tenuta Guado al Tasso was bottled in January 2024.
Historical Data
The Guado al Tasso estate is located in the small but prestigious Bolgheri DOC appellation on the coast of Upper Maremma, about one hundred kilometers southwest of Florence. This appellation has a relatively recent history as it was established in 1994 but has gained worldwide recognition as a new reference point in the international oenological scene. The estate covers an area of 1000 hectares (2500 acres), about 320 (790 acres) of which are planted with vines. The remainder is richly covered with wheat fields, sunflowers and olive groves, set in a beautiful plain encircled by rolling hillsides known as the “Bolgheri amphitheater” due to its particular shape. Guado al Tasso’s vineyards are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Vermentino grapes; this last cultivated with both with white and red varieties. The nearby sea provides a mild climate with constant breezes mitigate summer heat and alleviate harsh winter weather, maintaining a clear sky and a high level of sunlight exposure. The first vintage of Vermentino produced at the Guado al Tasso estate was 1996.
Tasting Notes
Vermentino from Tenuta Guado al Tasso is straw yellow in color with light green hues. Intense on the nose with pleasant floral and fruity notes of citrus fruit, hawthorn blossoms, and peach pulp. The palate is savory with good persistence of flavors and finishes fresh with hints of citrus fruit.
Tenuta Guado al Tasso
The Guado al Tasso estate is located in the small but prestigious Bolgheri DOC, on the coast of upper Maremma, about one hundred kilometers southwest from Florence. This appellation has a relatively recent history, DOC Bolgheri was approved in 1995 and since then it has become an internationally recognized reference point for the Italian and international winemaking arena. The estate covers an area of 320 hectares (790 acres) planted with vines, set in a beautiful plain encircled by rolling hillsides known as the "Bolgheri Amphitheatre" due to its particular shape. The vineyards are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Vermentino. The nearby sea provides a mild climate with constant breezes that mitigate summer heat and alleviate harsh winter weather, maintaining a clear sky and a high level of sunlight exposure.
Soil
Alluvial in origin, soil texture varies from silty-sand to sandy.
Antinori Estates
Estates in Italy
