Panizzi Winery, nestled in the picturesque Tuscan landscape, embodies a profound respect for the passage of time in its winemaking philosophy, particularly with its Vernaccia di San Gimignano varieties. This esteemed producer has consistently demonstrated a commitment to allowing its wines to develop over extended periods, a strategy evident since its inception. This deliberate approach results in a diverse portfolio of Vernaccia wines, ranging from youthful, vibrant expressions to deeply complex, long-aged reserves, all meticulously crafted to reflect the unique terroir of their Tuscan vineyards.
The story of Panizzi began in 1979 when Giovanni Panizzi acquired a small vineyard near San Gimignano. Rather than rushing to market, he dedicated a decade to refining his winemaking techniques, only releasing the inaugural Panizzi Vernaccia di San Gimignano in 1989. This foundational patience set the precedent for the winery's future endeavors, emphasizing quality and character above all else. The 'Green Label' Vernaccia, known for its fresh profile with notes of straw, white flowers, and saline minerality, quickly established Panizzi as a significant presence in the region's ancient winemaking tradition.
Panizzi's understanding of the Vernaccia grape's versatility is remarkable. While the 'Green Label' offers an unaged, vibrant rendition, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva DOCG represents a different journey. Grapes from vines grown on a limestone plateau at 400 meters altitude contribute to exceptional depth and concentration. This Riserva undergoes a meticulous aging process: 12 months in French oak barrels, followed by seven months on lees in neutral vessels, and then two more years in bottle before release. Although typically four years old upon release, this wine possesses significant potential for further maturation, evolving gracefully over time.
Further pushing the boundaries of ageability, Panizzi initiated its 'Ten Years After' Riserva Storica project in 2011. This ambitious program involves aging Panizzi Riserva Vernaccia di San Gimignano wines in the cellar for a full decade prior to release. The upcoming 2016 release is a testament to the winery's expert craftsmanship, visionary outlook, and remarkable patience. Panizzi's consistent success at prestigious events like the Decanter World Wine Awards underscores its status as a winery that truly understands its region and grape, continually striving to unlock their fullest potential in crafting exceptional Italian white wines.
Panizzi Winery's dedication to time-honored winemaking practices in Tuscany stands as a beacon of excellence, shaping distinctive Vernaccia wines that capture the essence of their origin and the transformative power of extended aging.