Vinsanto (Italian)

Traditional term for wine

• From: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
• Published: 4 January 2021

• Registered name: Vinsanto
• Register: Traditional terms for wine
• Status: Registered
• Class or category of product: Traditional Term
• Protection type: Traditional Term
• Country of origin: Italy
• Traditional term type: Description of product characteristic
• Traditional term language: Italian
• Date of registration (UK scheme): 10 March 2021
• Reason for protection: EU agreement

Summary

Historical-traditional term related to some wines produced in regions Toscana, Marche, Umbria, Emilia Romagna, Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige. It refers to the particular wine typology and to the corresponding and complex production method which implies storage and wine grapes drying in suitable and aerated places for a long ageing period into traditional wooden containers. With regard to the origin of the term, numerous hypothesis have been formulated, most of them are connected to the Middle Age. The most reliable is strictly connected to the religious value of wine. This wine was considered quite extraordinary and boasted miraculous virtues. It was commonly used when celebrating the Saint Mass and this can explain the term “Saint wine” (vinsanto). The term is still in use and it is mentioned in detail in the PDO’ specifications, a typology which is largely known and appreciated all over the world.

Published 4 January 2021