Vermentino is a native grape variety of Italy grown in the small region of Luguira in the north west of Italy, and on the islands of Sardinia and Corsica off the west coast of Italy. The quality of the variety has reached such high levels in Italy that it now has its own appellation, Vermentino di Gallura DOCG.
Apparently there are over 100 producers in Australia now and, although it’s primarily grown in the warmer regions, it is clearly doing very well in Orange, New South Wales. Also, it now has its own class (technically two, 6A & 6B) at the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show where, in 2019, there were a total of 45 entries with one gold, 4 silver and 17 bronze medals awarded. That’s a very good strike rate (48.888888888889% according to my calculator). It may well be on track to reach the quality of that grown in Italy. I wouldn’t be surprised.
Beautifully aromatic with citrus fruits, peaches, pears and a herb that my wife and I just could not put our finger on. The palate is fresh with those citrusy characters (more limey than lemony), also juicy peaches and a hint of apricots and green apples. It feels good on the tongue displaying texture and body, and it continues on with good length finishing with nice delicate acid.
I really enjoyed this wine. It’s a very good example of the variety from a region not as well known for it as others in Australia. Nice work Team Angullong!
Region: Orange Region, NSW Price: $26 Source: Sample courtesy of Angullong Wines and Define Wine
Words from a Wine Glass 