Vermentino is a white grape variety known for making very fresh, bright wines, even in warm climates. It’s Italian by origin, and does well in Sardinia, but has also crossed to France, and, in particular, Corsica and Provence. Expect to see it more often in the future: growers in the Languedoc like the way it makes fresh, assertive whites under warm, sunny skies. Here are two: a high end example from Corsica and a cheaper version from Italy.
Clos Poggiale 2009 Vin de Corse, France
From Skalli, this is a varietal Vermentino with real character. Lively, floral, citrussy aromatics with some finesse. The palate is fresh, in an unoaked style, with bright citrus fruit, some grapefruit freshness and richer notes of ripe white plums. Bold and fine at the same time. 92/100 (£17.25 Jeroboams)
Marks & Spencer Vermentino 2010 Lazio, Italy
Very fresh, bright and lively with simple citrussy fruit and a hint of peachy richness, as well as some pithy notes. 86/100 (£6.99 Marks & Spencer)
Chalmers Wine in Oz makes lovely VVVermentino
http://www.chalmerswine.com.au/html/wines/vermentino.html
Thanks for the mention Ruby! Yes, we make Vermentino and we love all things Vermentino. We also have recently released a new label, Montevecchio, from our new Heathcote vineyard and we have a ‘Bianco’. It’s a white blend heavy on the Vermentino with some Fiano and a splash of Moscato Giallo making up the rest of the blend. Enjoy.
Yes Chalmers are leading the pack with Vermentino in Australia and have done much to promote the variety. There are now over 40 OZ producers see http://www.vinodiversity.com/vermentino.html and it is coming onto the radar of more consumers. I even saw one on the shortish wine list of a Local Vietnamese restaurant last night.