There is no doubt that one of the most compelling reasons for choosing a particular item, whether it is a gift for someone or a personal treat, comes about  as a result of some notable memory. This was the case with me when choosing my recommended wine for May. It is my favourite month, not only because my date of birth falls in the month of May, but it is a joyful month with the seasonal change from spring to summer. This year (2011) we are experiencing quite unseasonal weather as April turns to May. Weeks of warm, dry weather are most welcome and the Beech trees, along with masses of bluebells are a joy to behold.

It is my guess that consumption of white and Rose wines will have risen sharply with this lovely weather as folk sit outside and enjoy the weather and glug on an easygoing, fruity wine. Until a few years ago I had never come across the delightful Vermentino grape and it is an Italian wine based on this variety that will be my recommendation for May. It was two years ago that I had the privilege of accompanying my wife and a good friend to the Tuscan, walled city of Lucca. We were involved in a Gardening Show (Murabilia) held on the walls of this stunning city during the month of September. It was on this memorable occasion that we were invited for a very “special” meal by our hosts and accompanying the lovely Tuscan food was a selection of equally fine wine. I had planned to stick with red wine that evening but decided to try a little white wine that the girls were clearly enjoying. I was immediately captivated and puzzled, a completely unfamiliar grape. I studied the label and was from that moment never to forget the Vermentino wine. My first recollection was of a fruity perfume, dry but full of apricots and some more uncharacteristic fruits. I will try it again and again and try and identify these fruits

Although this is a wine more familiar with Sardinia where it has been given DOCG status, I will recommend a Vermentino from Tuscany:

Vermentino 2009 Poggio al Tesoro

Amazingly, for such a fine wine, this is only the second vintage of this Tuscan Vermentino. The supplier, Valvona and Crolla, write about this wine ”High quality fruit, gentle pressing and cool fermentation give expressive freshness and ageing,  Stunning!”

I agree wholeheatedly.

At £16.95 this wine is a memorable treat and will perfectly accompany a selection of this fine supplier’s range of Parma ham and Pecorino cheese.

www.valvonacrolla-online.co.uk