Le Grottine Vermentino Giovanni Chiappini 2018

Vermentino “Le Grottine” 2018 – Giovanni Chiappini

Bolgheri DOC – Tuscany, Italy

Producer Overview

Giovanni Chiappini is a respected and authentic voice in the Bolgheri appellation, crafting wines that blend Tuscan character with international appeal. Located along the famed Via Bolgherese—known for its proximity to some of Italy’s most prestigious vineyards—the estate benefits from a combination of sandy-clay soils, excellent drainage, and maritime influence from the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea. Chiappini’s philosophy centers on low yields, careful vineyard management, and a minimal-intervention approach in the cellar to preserve the purity of fruit and terroir expression.

In 2019, The Wine Voyager visited the winery, walking through the well-tended rows of Vermentino, touched by the sea breeze and Mediterranean light. The visit revealed Chiappini’s warm hospitality and deep respect for his craft, with a tasting that showcased his ability to produce both robust reds and expressive whites.

Wine Composition

Made from 100% Vermentino, “Le Grottine” is harvested at optimum ripeness, gently pressed, and vinified in stainless steel at controlled temperatures to preserve aromatic freshness. The wine rests briefly on fine lees to enhance texture and complexity.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Bright, pale straw-yellow with greenish reflections, suggesting youth and freshness.

• Nose: Aromatic and inviting, with notes of white peach, citrus zest, and green apple, intertwined with Mediterranean herbs—sage, thyme—and a delicate saline nuance evoking the nearby sea.

• Palate: Crisp and lively on entry, showing flavors of lemon, pear, and melon, layered with hints of wild fennel and wet stone. The mid-palate offers a subtle creaminess from the lees contact, adding roundness without compromising vibrancy.

• Finish: Clean, persistent, and mineral-driven, leaving a refreshing, slightly salty aftertaste that calls for another sip.

Conclusion

“Le Grottine” 2018 captures the essence of coastal Tuscany in a glass—bright, aromatic, and perfectly balanced between fruit generosity and saline minerality. Its freshness makes it an ideal summer white, yet the underlying complexity reveals the thoughtful craftsmanship behind it.

Serving Suggestion: Serve well-chilled at 8–10°C. Perfect with grilled seafood, octopus salad, or a simple spaghetti alle vongole.