San Gimignano has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the towers that distinguish the town. At one time these were 72 but now there are only thirteen to characterize this elegant town in the province of Siena.
San Gmignano’s worldwide fame, is not only owed to its particular architecture, but also to the wealth of works of art and the Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a fine white wine produced exclusively here. It seems that the grape was introduced for the first time in the Municipality of San Gimignano by a certain Vieri de’ Bardi, from Liguria, around 1200. Thanks to the work of his descendants, Zanobi and Angiolo Bardi, the development of the grape cultivation became very popular and made the wine famous. Already in 1276 the trade of Vernaccia di San Gimignano was flourishing, fact proven by the taxation ordinance that in that year imposed a charge of three coins for each load of Vernaccia outside the city walls.
When visiting San Gimignano, you should not miss out:
The cathedral, completed in 1148, and considered one of the most prestigious museums in Tuscany. Built on three naves, it is a container of Florentine School frescoes with St. Sebastian by Benozzo Gozzoli, Stories of St. Fina by Domenico Ghirlandaio and wooden statues by Jacopo della Quercia. The Palazzo Comunale, which formerly housed the mayor, is very interesting. It currently houses the civic museum and the art gallery containing masterpieces by artists such as Benozzo Gozzoli, Pinturicchio, Pier Francesco Fiorentino, Domenico di Michelino and Filippino Lippi. Inside the Town Hall you can also visit the hall of Dante with the Majesty of Lippo Memmi and access the Torre del Podestá or Torre Grossa, a 54 meters high structure built in 1311.
More information on the Vernaccia di San Gimignano
Vernaccia was the first Tuscan white wine to receive the guaranteed origin label in 1993. The wine has been subject to a constant evolution, both in the vineyard and the cellar, which has led to great quality levels. It is obtained from grapes of the vine of the same name, with the possible presence of other non-aromatic white grapes, up to a maximum of 10 percent.
The pale straw yellow color, tending to gold as it ages, is its characteristic, just as the fine and penetrating scent. The taste is dry, harmonious, with a slight bitterish aftertaste. Alcohol level must be at a minimum of 22 proof, 23 for the aged reserve. Vernaccia di San Gimignano is an excellent companion for bread soups, Italian appetizers, fish and shellfish. This nectar is also a delicious aperitif. Always serve chilled!
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