What kind of wine is Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva DOCG 2020 - Fontaleoni

Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva DOCG 2020 - Fontaleoni is one of the most fascinating expressions of the renowned Vernaccia grape, cultivated on the sandy, mineral-rich hills surrounding San Gimignano, in Tuscany. It is a white wine with a decisive character, combining freshness, structure, and a typical, highly elegant savory note. The Fontaleoni family's production approach focuses on the expressive purity of the grape, with a perfect balance between body and aromatic finesse.

Vintage Details

2020 was a balanced year for the San Gimignano area: a mild winter, a regular spring, and a warm summer with good temperature variations between day and night. These conditions ensured optimal grape ripening, preserving natural acidity and promoting intense aromatic concentration. The result is a Vernaccia capable of combining freshness and depth, ideal for aging.

Winemaking and Aging

The production of Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva DOCG 2020 - Fontaleoni follows a careful process that respects tradition. - Part of the must ferments in small wooden barrels, where the wine acquires complexity and very light spicy notes. - The other part ferments and refines in stainless steel, maintaining the freshness and varietal expressiveness of the grape. - Subsequently, the wine rests on its fine lees (the solid parts of the must that settle after fermentation) for at least six months, gaining greater body and depth. - This is followed by bottle aging for over two years, which makes it elegant, harmonious, and with interesting evolutionary potential.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a luminous golden yellow, indicating maturity and refinement, yet still bright and vivid like the best characterful Vernaccias.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and refined: notes of ripe yellow-fleshed fruit, candied citrus, white flowers, and a hint of vanilla and toasted almond emerge. In the background, a pleasant minerality is perceived, a typical sign of the San Gimignano territory.

Palate

On the palate, Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva DOCG 2020 - Fontaleoni is full, balanced, and supported by a lively freshness. The mineral savoriness accompanies a persistent and slightly spicy finish, inviting another sip. A perfect demonstration of how even a white wine can express elegance and aging potential.

Food Pairings for Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva DOCG 2020 - Fontaleoni

This wine splendidly pairs with Mediterranean cuisine, enhancing both simple and more structured preparations. Ideal with: - Seafood appetizers and shellfish - Seafood or aromatic herb risottos - Delicate white meats such as baked chicken or rabbit - Medium-aged hard cheeses Its minerality and good acidity also make it perfect for accompanying light Asian cuisine or spicy dishes.

Storage and Aging

How to store Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva DOCG 2020 - Fontaleoni wine? It is a white that surprises with its longevity, but requires some attention. Store it in a cool environment, with a constant temperature of around 12-14°C, away from light and heat sources. Although this Vernaccia can evolve positively over time, developing more complex and honeyed notes, it is recommended to consume it within 2-3 years of release to fully enjoy its vitality and the perfect balance between freshness and structure.