Vin Santo (pronounced Vin san-toh), which means "holy wine", has various theories surrounding its origins. One of the most famous stories tells of a Franciscan monk, who would use it to celebrate Holy Mass. Later, it was more-commonly known for its "holy" or curative power regarding the treatment of ailments.

VINTAGE
2004

APPELLATION
Chianti Classico DOC

AREA
Radda in Chianti, Tuscany

GRAPES
Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia del Chianti

VINIFICATION
Although Tuscany is not the sole Italian region making the passito dessert wine Vin Santo, the best-known version originates in Chianti Classico, and while Sangiovese grapes can yield both red and rosé styles, Castello D'Albola produces a wine comprised of a blend of Trebbiano and Malvasia Bianca. To create our unique blend, the hand-harvested grapes are first carefully selected and then are dried in ventilated rooms. The length of time the grapes are dried influences the degree of desiccation and, hence, potential levels of residual sugar for a given alcohol reading. After being set to dry for approximately four months, the wine is aged for eight years in 180-liter chestnut barrels called "Caratelli". The barrels are not changed and are used multiple times over their lifetime. Fermentation occurs inside the barrels, which are covered with a deep red wax, keeping the wine unexposed. Approximately 2,000 bottles are made annually.

COLOR
Golden amber with rich, luminous reflections

BOUQUET
Intense and complex; perfumed with scents of raisins combined with aromas of apricots, figs, dried fruit, wood, and honey fused with aromatic notes of a great personality

PALATE
Full and warm with a velvety texture, sweet delicate notes and an extraordinary finish.

FOOD PAIRINGS
Pairs well with fois gras; perfectly compliments desserts, such as Cantucci, high quality dark chocolate, Gorgonzola, and nut-based tarts

ALCOHOL LEVEL
15.5%

BOTTLE SIZE
500 mL