Santa Maria La Palma, Vermentino di Sardegna DOC (Sardinia, Italy) “Blu” 2016

($15): Vermentino, Sardinia’s most planted grape variety, has become “hot.”  Even the French are starting to use the Italian name instead of the French name, Rolle.  Vermentino does best in a hot climate with proximity to the sea, which makes Sardinia a perfect locale.  This one, made by a co-operative, is refreshing and lively with a mouth-watering hint of salinity.  It’s flavorful without being heavy.  Steamed clams anyone?
89 Michael Apstein Jun 13, 2017