2019 Vermentino di Toscana

91 points - James Suckling

Founded in 1999, Poggio al Lupo, which translates as ‘Wolf’s Knoll’, is based in Maremma, located on the west coast of Italy, almost directly south of Florence. The vineyards lie on top of rich clay, sandstone and marly limestone soils, stretching across the Magliano hills. The latter provide varying south facing altitudes (100 – 330 metres above sea level) for their Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Vermentino vines. The estate was founded by Antonio Moretti, who also owns Orma estate in Bolgheri, and Tenuta Sette Ponti, in Chianti.

Vermentino is the white grape most widely cultivated along the Tuscan coast, the soil, rich in minerals and limestone, transmits to this wine crispness and minerality. Fermentation for this Vermentino took place in small stainless steel vats at a controlled temperature for at least 15 days, after which the wine was aged in stainless steel tanks, maintaining the fresh varietal characteristics.

The Poggio al Lupo Vermentino di Toscana is clear straw yellow with green reflections. On the nose citrus and floral notes are well-integrated with mineral ones. On the palate, it is well balanced by crispness and softness.