What is Occhio di Pernice?

Occhio di Pernice is a specific, rare style of Vin Santo di Montepulciano made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, resulting in a deep amber-pink color.

How long is the wine aged?

The wine must be aged in small wooden barrels (caratelli) for a minimum of three years, though many producers age them significantly longer.

What grapes are used to make Vin Santo di Montepulciano?

The standard style is made primarily from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes, while the Occhio di Pernice style requires a minimum of 50% Sangiovese.

Appellation

Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC

ヴィン・サント・ディ・モンテプルチャーノ

A legendary Tuscan dessert wine aged in small barrels for complex, nutty, and honeyed depth.

Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC is a prestigious Italian appellation located in the province of Siena, Tuscany. It is renowned for producing high-quality dessert wines made primarily from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes, which are dried on mats before fermentation. The aging process occurs in small wooden barrels called 'caratelli' for several years, resulting in a complex, oxidative style with notes of dried fruits, honey, and nuts. The appellation also includes the rare and highly prized 'Occhio di Pernice' (Partridge Eye) version, which is produced using a high percentage of Sangiovese grapes, yielding a rich, amber-colored rosé dessert wine with intense berry aromas.

Best for: Ideal for collectors of fine Italian wines, dessert wine enthusiasts, and those seeking a sophisticated end to a gourmet meal.

No sub-regions registered yet.

Producers

No producers registered yet.

Food Pairings

Cantucci (almond biscotti), aged pecorino cheese with honey, blue cheeses, and rich fruit-based desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Occhio di Pernice?: Occhio di Pernice is a specific, rare style of Vin Santo di Montepulciano made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, resulting in a deep amber-pink color.
How long is the wine aged?: The wine must be aged in small wooden barrels (caratelli) for a minimum of three years, though many producers age them significantly longer.
What grapes are used to make Vin Santo di Montepulciano?: The standard style is made primarily from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes, while the Occhio di Pernice style requires a minimum of 50% Sangiovese.