Tenuta Le Calcinaie di Simone Santini Vernaccia, Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, Italy

Tenuta Le Calcinaie, a gem nestled just 3km from the historic town of San Gimignano, Siena, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Tuscany's winemaking tradition. Founded by Simone Santini, a visionary wine technician turned vintner, this estate has been a cradle for the noble Vernaccia grape since 1986. With roots deep in sandy soils enriched by the Pliocene epoch's marine deposits, the estate's vines thrive under Simone's organic stewardship. The story of Tenuta Le Calcinaie is a narrative of passion, transformation, and dedication, transitioning from contracted vineyards to a proud, organic-certified producer since 1998, with wines bearing the certification since 2012. The Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a wine steeped in history and celebrated in Dante's Divine Comedy, finds its most authentic expression in the hands of Simone Santini.

Production Highlights: At Tenuta Le Calcinaie, the Vernaccia grapes are nurtured on 6 hectares of vineyards at 220-250 meters above sea level, benefiting from the south and east exposure. The estate's commitment to organic viticulture ensures a harmonious balance with nature, resulting in a wine that reflects not only its terroir but also a standard-bearer for sustainability. The winemaking process, which is meticulous and respectful of tradition, includes cold settling and fermentation in stainless steel at 16°C for three weeks, then maturing on the lees until the following spring. This careful approach crafts a wine that respects the environment and is delightful to the palate.

Product Details:

• Region or Appellation: Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Vineyard Extension: 6 Hectares
• Grapes: 100% Vernaccia
• Age of the Vineyards: 1987, 1999, 2009
• Soil: Sandy soil with Pliocene origin
• Exposure: South, East
• Altitude: 220-250 mt above sea level
• Color: Clear straw yellow
• Alcohol Content (ABV): 12.5%
• Annual Production: 35,000 bottles

Sensory Perception: The Vernaccia di San Gimignano from Tenuta Le Calcinaie captivates with an intense, delicate fragrance of green apple and white flowers, a prelude to its fresh, fragrant, and mineral palate. Its flavor is a harmonious blend of vivacity and tenderness, with a slightly tasty and easy-to-drink character, embodying the essence of Tuscany's white winemaking prowess.

Pairings and Occasions: This Vernaccia shines as an aperitif or when paired with various dishes. From seafood starters and steamed and grilled fish to white meat, its versatility knows no bounds. It complements the richness of a prosciutto starter, the tanginess of marinated artichokes, the delicacy of vegetable Cheung fun, and the hearty depth of ravioli, making it a perfect companion for various culinary experiences.

Accolades: A place of honor in the Wine Spectator Top 100, ranking #84 for the 2015 vintage, awarded in 2017, underscores the wine's outstanding quality and the esteem in which it is held globally.

In every glass of Tenuta Le Calcinaie's Vernaccia di San Gimignano, one savor not just a wine but a piece of Tuscan heritage, meticulously crafted and lovingly preserved for the discerning palate.