I Came for Chianti, I Stayed for Vermentino

I am writing this post for the girls who love a crisp summer white, whether that's Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. But what if I told you there was a wine that shares some of the best qualities of both?

As I've mentioned before, I am definitely a red wine girl. But to be completely transparent, I have never experienced heat like I have living in Tuscany. Victoria, BC summers are nothing compared to the humidity and heat of central Italy.

One of my favourite traditions here is the afternoon aperitivo. After a long morning working in the vineyard, it's a chance to sit on a patio, enjoy a drink, and snack on a few little bites before dinner. Without even realizing it, I found myself constantly gravitating toward a nice, cold glass of Vermentino.

Vermentino is a white grape native to the Mediterranean and is especially popular in Tuscany, Liguria, Sardinia, and Corsica. It thrives in warm coastal climates, and after spending a summer here, that just makes sense.

So what does it taste like?

Think citrus, green apple, pear, white peach, fresh herbs, and a slight salty minerality that reminds me of a Mediterranean sea breeze. It has bright acidity and a light to medium body, making it incredibly refreshing on a hot day.

The best way I can describe it is Pinot Grigio meets Sauvignon Blanc, with a little Assyrtiko thrown in. If you enjoy crisp, fresh white wines with plenty of acidity, I think there's a good chance you'll love Vermentino too.

I wanted to share this wine because it has truly become the wine of the summer for me. I know that years from now, whenever I pour myself a glass of Vermentino, it will instantly take me back to early mornings in the vineyard, warm Tuscan afternoons, and slow aperitivos with my friends.

If you're shopping for a bottle, you'll usually see Vermentino on the label followed by the region it comes from. For example, Vermentino di Sardegna or Vermentino Toscana. Don't be intimidated by the Italian labels. Once you know what to look for, it's an easy wine to spot.

If you're looking for your next summer white, this is my recommendation.