The Vernaccia grape can grow in other regions of Italy, but it flourishes in the sun-soaked region surrounding San Gimignano.  And who could blame it?  The noble sweep of these sunny hills sum up everything that is lovely and intoxicating about Tuscany—verdant stretches in the summer heat, heavy golden sunflowers, leisure and love in abundance.  Poderi del Paradiso is both aptly named and produces some of the most sublime Vernaccia that has most certainly earned its place in paradise.  Vernaccia has since ancient times (the Italian poet Dante loved drinking Vernaccia) pleased the palates of poets and popes, not to mention many a noble who built and rebuilt the many proud towers that still grace the skyline of San Gimignano today.  But even without the history lesson Vernaccia stands on its own, with its fresh almond aromas, its citrus core, and its luscious, limpid and sun-kissed soul.  It is a wine that demands nothing of you but time, and time—slow and sultry—is exactly what you deserve when you open a bottle.

Friday, August 20, 2010