Panizzi - Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva 2011

Panizzi - Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva 2011 (91+ TSW)

Today a very special Vernacchia on the drinking table (window :)) with an incredible aging potential.

The Riserva is the historical and quintessential wine of Panizzi and undergoes a very long, special process before its introduction. Born from a single vineyard at 400 meters altitude, on a tufaceous plateau, barrique fermented and aged, Riserva is Panizzi Manifesto for longevity and exceptional aging potential of this varietal.

Vernaccia di San Gimignano 100%. Selection of the best grapes of the year, harvested in the second half of September. Soft pressing; alcoholic fermentation, maturation and aging in oak barrels for 12 months.

My tasting notes:

In the glass a bright golden yellow color.
On the medium(+) nose aromas of baked apple, pear, grapefruit and citrus with hints of vanilla, hazelnut, butterscotch, honey and caramel hints.
On the palate dry, medium(++) bodied with medium acidity and light fatiness in the mouth. Concentrated and balanced with a persistent finish showing exotic fruits and minerality. Already nice but with more time the oak will be even better integrated.

Pair with baked fish, white meats, recipes with delicate sauces and mature and creamy blue cheeses. Keeps very well for 10/20 years and beyond. When tasting blind this could be a nice Burgundy white.