Wine RegionsVernaccia di San Gimignano, the white wine of Tuscany
San Gimignano's Vernaccia was the first Italian wine ever to receive DOC status, back in 1966 — Tuscany's only DOCG white wine.
The short version
- The first Italian wine to receive DOC status, in 1966
- Five estates to visit, from Cappella Sant'Andrea to Azienda Agricola San Quirico
- Best in spring and autumn, when the vineyards are at their most picturesque
- Easy from Florence and Siena; pair it with Pecorino cheese and saffron
San Gimignano, a charming medieval town in Tuscany, is a must-visit destination for wine lovers, home to some of the best wineries in the region and unforgettable wine tasting experiences.
Italy's first DOC wine
San Gimignano is famous for Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the first Italian wine to receive DOC status, in 1966. This crisp and aromatic white wine has been enjoyed since medieval times and remains a symbol of the region's winemaking tradition.
San Gimignano is famous for Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the first Italian wine to receive DOC status, in 1966.
Estates to visit
Among the top estates to visit: Cappella Sant'Andrea, offering guided tastings of Vernaccia, Chianti, and Super Tuscan wines; Tenuta Guardastelle, a family-run estate with breathtaking views; Podere La Marronaia, specializing in organic and biodynamic wines and olive oil; Fattoria Il Piano, known for high-quality Vernaccia; and Azienda Agricola San Quirico, a hidden gem specializing in organic Vernaccia.
When and how to go
The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the vineyards are at their most picturesque. San Gimignano is easily accessible from Florence and Siena, and pairing a visit with local specialties like Pecorino cheese and saffron makes the experience complete.
Keep reading
Chianti Wine Road Map
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Bolgheri Wine Road
Bolgheri is where the Super Tuscan wine movement began in 1968 — a guide to the region's top estates, from Tenuta San Guido to Ornellaia.
The Iconic Brunello di Montalcino: Crafting Excellence in the Heart of Tuscany
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