Tuscan wines are well-known around the world, especially her Chianti wines and wines from areas such as Montepulciano. However, among these more familiar red and white wines there is another sort to make note of if you find a villa in Chianti and come to sample all that is on offer. The wine-lovers and foodies who like excellent pairings should also make a point to sample the region’s Vin Santo.
While Vin Santo is made in various areas in Italy, the best examples come from Tuscany and there are several recognised DOC Vin Santo wines to be discovered in the region. There are two different options to choose from while on vacation in Chianti. These are the Vin Santo del Chianti (created in 1997) and the Vin Santo del Chianti Classico (created in 1995). A far larger range of options exist but these are the examples that you should try if you are serious about your wine and want the best of the best.
A literally heavenly wine, Vin Santo means, “saint wine,” and many of its various origin tales suggest connections to the church. Dating back to at least the Middle Ages, the true origins have been lost to time but the saintly drink can still be enjoyed either way.
Made using traditional methods that see grapes harvested and left out to raisin for three to six months before being vinified into small oak or cedar barrels before yeast is added. The DOC wines must be aged for three years (or longer for the Riserva wines) and are kept in hot attics rather than cool cellars. Until they are opened, it is unsure if they will even turn out well and it is a bit of a gamble as a result but successful Vin Santo wines will be sweet, amber in colour, and with notes of nuts, toffee, and raisin.
Traditionally served with dessert, Vin Santo is the perfect way to finish a delicious meal during your stay in one of our incredible holiday rentals in Chianti.
