# Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG (2022)

- **Producer:** Cecchi
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Vernaccia, Chardonnay
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €21
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, grapefruit, lemon, green apple, pear

## About this wine

Cecchi Vernaccia di San Gimignano 2022 is a white wine from Tuscany, specifically the San Gimignano appellation. It is a Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) wine, a classification that signifies its protected origin and quality. The wine is primarily made from the Vernaccia grape, with a small addition of Chardonnay. The Cecchi family, with a winemaking history dating back to 1893, has been producing wine in this historic area since 1988. The vineyards are situated in the valley and on gentle hillsides around San Gimignano, benefiting from a southern exposure. Vernaccia di San Gimignano holds historical significance as the first Italian wine to achieve DOC status in 1966, later upgraded to DOCG in 1993.

## Interesting facts

- First Italian wine to earn DOC status (1966).
- Upgraded to DOCG status in 1993.
- Vineyards are nestled amongst olive groves.
- San Gimignano is famous for its medieval towers.

## Food pairing

The wine's lively acidity cuts through the richness of seafood and creamy dishes, while its mineral notes complement the subtle flavors of white fish and vegetables. Its crispness also makes it a refreshing counterpoint to lighter chicken preparations.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Cecchi Vernaccia di San Gimignano 2022 begins with a harvest of grapes, collected both manually and mechanically in the early morning to maintain freshness. The grapes are then gently pressed. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, typically at around 15°C for about two weeks. After fermentation, the wine is aged in stainless steel tanks for a minimum of three months. It then spends an additional two months in the bottle before being released to the market.