Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Festival: A Celebration of Tuscany’s Iconic White Wine

A Tribute to Vernaccia di San Gimignano

Every year, wine lovers and industry professionals gather in the medieval town of San Gimignano for the Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Festival, also known as Regina Ribelle. This prestigious event celebrates one of Italy’s most historic white wines, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, renowned for its crisp minerality and elegant aromas.

When and Where

The festival is in the heart of San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers and breathtaking landscapes. The 2025 edition is scheduled for May 17-18, offering two days of tastings, masterclasses, and cultural experiences in a truly unique setting.

Wine Tastings and Masterclasses

Visitors can taste a wide selection of Vernaccia di San Gimignano wines, guided by expert sommeliers and local producers. From fresh and young expressions to aged Riserva versions, the festival showcases the full spectrum of this exceptional white wine. Masterclasses dive deeper into the nuances of Vernaccia, exploring its terroir, production techniques, and perfect food pairings.

The Best AIS Sommelier of Tuscany Competition

One of the festival’s highlights is the prestigious Best AIS Sommelier of Tuscany competition, where top sommeliers from across the region compete for the title. This exciting event offers a chance to witness the expertise and passion of Italy’s finest wine professionals.

A Unique Cultural and Gastronomic Experience

Beyond wine tastings, the festival features local food pairings, entertainment, and music, creating a vibrant atmosphere in San Gimignano’s historic center. Guests can enjoy Tuscan delicacies that perfectly complement Vernaccia wines, while the Rocca di Montestaffoli hosts cultural performances, interactive exhibits, and a DJ set to close the celebrations.

The Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Experience

For those eager to deepen their knowledge, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Experience at Rocca di Montestaffoli offers an immersive journey through the history and production of this iconic wine. This interactive space allows visitors to engage with multimedia displays, taste a variety of wines, and appreciate the evolution of Vernaccia over time.

Why You Should Attend

The Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Festival is more than just a tasting event—it’s an opportunity to connect with local winemakers, explore Tuscany’s winemaking traditions, and experience the charm of San Gimignano. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend in Tuscany, this festival is a must-visit.

Mark your calendar for May 18-19, 2024, and immerse yourself in Vernaccia di San Gimignano! 🍷✨

Montevertine and the Birth of Pergole Torte: A Chianti Classico Icon

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Montevertine stands as one of the most revered names in the world of Italian wine. This estate, located in Radda in Chianti, has become synonymous with uncompromising quality and a deep respect for tradition. Montevertine’s journey from a personal project to an iconic winery is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Sergio Manetti.

The Early Years: A Passion Project Turns Into a Legacy

Montevertine’s story began in 1967, when Sergio Manetti, a successful steel manufacturer from Milan, purchased the estate as a countryside retreat. His love for wine led him to plant vineyards and build a small winery, initially producing wine for personal consumption and for friends. However, the extraordinary quality of his first vintage in 1971 caught the attention of industry experts, prompting him to submit his wines to the Vinitaly fair. The overwhelmingly positive reception convinced Manetti to turn his passion into a full-fledged winery.

The Birth of Pergole Torte: A Break from Convention

Montevertine was initially classified as a Chianti Classico producer, but Sergio Manetti had a different vision. He believed in the power of Sangiovese as a standalone variety, rather than blending it with the white grapes traditionally required by Chianti Classico regulations at the time. This led to the creation of Pergole Torte, first released in 1977 as a pure Sangiovese wine—something almost unheard of in the region back then.

Because the strict DOCG rules mandated the use of white grapes in Chianti Classico wines, Montevertine chose to leave the denomination behind and label Pergole Torte as a Vino da Tavola. Despite this unconventional classification, the wine quickly gained a cult following for its elegance, complexity, and aging potential. Over the years, Pergole Torte has established itself as one of the most prestigious wines from Tuscany, proving that great winemaking transcends bureaucratic constraints.

The Legacy Continues

Following Sergio Manetti’s passing in 2000, his son Martino took over the winery, staying true to his father’s philosophy. Montevertine continues to produce outstanding wines with a focus on Sangiovese, maintaining a dedication to craftsmanship and authenticity. Today, Pergole Torte is recognized as a benchmark for 100% Sangiovese wines, embodying the rich heritage of Montevertine and the vision that shaped its legacy.

Montevertine’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of passion and conviction in winemaking. By challenging conventions and trusting in the purity of Sangiovese, the estate has secured its place among Italy’s most revered wine producers, with Pergole Torte standing as a timeless expression of Chianti’s true soul.