Tenuta Fertuna, Vermentino Orange 2022

Tenuta Fertuna, nestled in the heart of Tuscany's Maremma region, is celebrated for its innovative approach to winemaking, seamlessly blending tradition with modern techniques. The 'Vermentino Orange' 2022 exemplifies this philosophy, offering a distinctive expression of the Vermentino grape through the ancient method of extended skin contact, resulting in an 'orange' wine. This process involves fermenting the juice with the grape skins at 20°C for five days, followed by continued alcoholic fermentation at 18°C after separation from the skins. Notably, no additional sulphur is added during vinification. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged for six months on fine lees in small stainless steel vats, with weekly bâtonnage to enhance complexity and mouthfeel. 

Appearance: In the glass, the 'Vermentino Orange' 2022 presents a bright golden yellow hue with elegant red-gold reflections, showcasing its unique vinification process and vibrant character.

Aroma: The nose is greeted with an intriguing bouquet of ripe stone fruits, including peach and apricot, complemented by subtle floral notes and a hint of citrus zest. These aromas are interwoven with delicate herbal undertones, adding depth and complexity to the aromatic profile.

Taste: On the palate, this medium-bodied wine offers a harmonious blend of fruit and savoury elements. Flavours of yellow plum and dried apricot are balanced by a refreshing acidity and a fine tannic structure, a result of the extended skin contact during fermentation. The mouthfeel is enhanced by a slight textural richness from the lees aging, leading to a well-rounded and complex tasting experience.

Finish: The finish is persistent and slightly saline, with lingering notes of citrus and a subtle bitterness reminiscent of almond skin. This clean and refreshing conclusion invites another sip, highlighting the wine's balanced acidity and unique character.

Food Pairing: The 'Vermentino Orange' 2022 is versatile in food pairings, complementing both seafood and land dishes, including more structured or gastronomic fare. It pairs exceptionally well with aged cheeses and can also be enjoyed as a meditation wine. Serving at a temperature of around 10–11°C in medium-sized glasses is recommended to fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and complexity. 

This wine exemplifies Tenuta Fertuna's commitment to exploring traditional winemaking techniques, offering a distinctive and engaging expression of the Vermentino grape that reflects the rich terroir of the Maremma region