Vin Santo di Montepulciano (1991)

About this wine

The 1991 Avignonesi Vin Santo di Montepulciano is a luscious dessert wine with a deep amber hue. It offers intense aromas of toffee, dark chocolate, and acacia honey, complemented by hints of Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, flavors of fig, almond, and lemon unfold, followed by roasted coffee bean notes. This wine is crafted from Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes, which are dried for several months before fermentation, concentrating their sugars and flavors. Aged for over a decade in small oak barrels, it develops a remarkable depth and complexity, making it a standout example of traditional Tuscan Vin Santo.

About the grape

Malvasia and Trebbiano Toscano are two grape varieties with deep roots in Italian winemaking, particularly in Tuscany. Malvasia, believed to have originated in Greece, was introduced to Italy through trade routes and has been cultivated in Tuscany for centuries. Trebbiano Toscano, one of the most widely planted white grape varieties in Italy, is known for its high acidity and neutral flavor profile, making it versatile in blends. In the production of Avignonesi's 1991 Vin Santo di Montepulciano, these grapes were carefully dried on straw mats for several months to concentrate their sugars before fermentation, a traditional method that enhances the wine's sweetness and complexity.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1991 Vin Santo di Montepulciano from Avignonesi is crafted from Malvasia and Trebbiano Toscano grapes, which are dried for several months to concentrate their sugars, resulting in a rich, sweet wine.
• 🛢️ This wine undergoes an extensive aging process, maturing in small oak barrels called 'caratelli' for approximately 10 years, allowing it to develop complex flavors and aromas.
• 🍯 Avignonesi's Vin Santo is renowned for its intense aromas of caramel, raisins, tobacco, spices, dried figs, and nuts, offering a unique and indulgent tasting experience.
• 🍷 The production of this Vin Santo is highly limited, with only about 3,000 half-bottles produced, making it a rare and sought-after wine among collectors and enthusiasts.
• ⏳ Despite its sweetness, the high sugar content and meticulous production process ensure that the wine remains stable and maintains its intense aromas even after being opened for an extended period.

Palate profile

Producer

Avignonesi, established in 1974 by the Avignonesi family in Montepulciano, Italy, has a rich history rooted in the region's winemaking traditions. In 2009, Belgian entrepreneur Virginie Saverys acquired the estate, transforming it into a leader in biodynamic viticulture. Under her guidance, Avignonesi expanded to 175 hectares of vineyards and achieved organic certification in 2016 and biodynamic certification in 2019. The winery is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, producing wines that authentically reflect the unique terroirs of Montepulciano and Cortona.