Montenidoli “Tradizionale” Vernaccia di San Gimignano 2022

The Land:

Perched on the high-altitude slopes of San Gimignano, Montenidoli’s vineyards sit on ancient marine soils rich in limestone and fossilized shells. These mineral-laden soils, combined with the warm Tuscan sun and cooling breezes from the nearby Apennines, create the ideal environment for Vernaccia. This terroir imparts the wine’s signature salinity, structure, and tension, setting it apart from more conventional expressions of the grape. Cultivation is strictly organic, ensuring the health of the land and the purity of the fruit.

The Wine:

A textbook example of Vernaccia di San Gimignano made in the traditional style, this wine undergoes short skin contact before fermentation, enhancing its depth and texture. Fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel, it retains its purity while showcasing a structured, almost phenolic grip. Citrus peel, almond, and white orchard fruit lead into a mineral-driven finish, supported by bright acidity and a faintly savory edge. No oak is used, allowing the terroir to shine through with precision and clarity.

The People:

Elisabetta Fagiuoli has been the driving force behind Montenidoli for over five decades, farming organically and championing the historic traditions of Vernaccia. Her approach—minimal intervention in the cellar, deep respect for the land—results in wines that speak authentically of their origins. Montenidoli’s “Tradizionale” remains one of the most compelling expressions of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, balancing old-world technique with a vibrancy that rewards both early drinking and cellaring.