Aia Vecchia Vermentino 2022

Aia Vecchia is a family-owned winery situated in the Bolgheri region of Tuscany, Italy. The Pellegrini family established the estate in 1996, and it quickly became known for producing high-quality wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. Aia Vecchia focuses primarily on crafting Bordeaux-style blends, but their range also includes varietal wines like Vermentino. Their dedication to quality and innovation has earned them a reputation for excellence in the Italian wine scene.

The Bolgheri region, where Aia Vecchia is located, is renowned for its distinctive terroir, characterized by a mix of clay, limestone, and sandy soils that provide excellent drainage and contribute to the complexity of the wines. The proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea also moderates the climate, offering cooling breezes that help maintain the acidity and freshness of the grapes. For their Vermentino, Aia Vecchia employs careful vineyard management and modern winemaking techniques to highlight the grape's aromatic potential and vibrant character.

Appearance: The 2022 Aia Vecchia Vermentino presents a bright, pale straw-yellow colour with greenish reflections, indicating its freshness and youthful character.

Aroma: On the nose, this Vermentino is aromatic and expressive, offering a bouquet of citrus fruits like lemon and lime, alongside green apple, white peach, and floral notes of jasmine and acacia. There are also subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs and a touch of salinity, reflecting the coastal influence.

Taste: The palate is crisp and lively, with flavours of ripe citrus, stone fruit, and a hint of almond. The wine's bright acidity is well-balanced, providing a refreshing backbone that enhances its fruit-forward profile. It also exhibits a minerally undertone, adding depth and complexity.

Finish: The finish is clean and zesty, with lingering notes of citrus and a touch of saline minerality, inviting another sip.

Food pairing: The Aia Vecchia Vermentino 2022 would pair wonderfully with freshly shucked oysters, where its acidity and minerality will enhance the briny flavours, making for a crisp and refreshing combination. Another excellent pairing would be half lobster tail marinated with garlic lemon beurre noisette and duck egg parsley omelette; the wine’s bright citrus notes and subtle herbaceousness will complement the richness of the lobster and the buttery sauce, creating a harmonious and elegant pairing.