How to Buy Vin Santo Dessert Wine

When you buy Vin Santo dessert wine for your guests you are following a centuries-old Italian tradition. Vin Santo, called "holy wine" because of its role in the Catholic mass, dates back to the Roman era. For generations this prized wine was made only for family and friends. Sold commercially only since the 1970's, Vin Santo is now enjoyed all over the world.

Instructions

1. Locate a local wine store or look on line for wine sellers who carry Vin Santo.

2. Decide whether you prefer sweet, dry, or semi-dry wine. Any of these pairs well with desserts.

3. Do your geography homework and know your vintners. Some of the finest Vin Santo dessert wines come from Umbria, Tuscany and Veneto. These Vin Santo wines may vary in flavor and consistency, but not in quality. Because Vin Santo is made of partially dried grapes and aged for years in wood, a great Vin Santo is smooth, thick and golden, with an intense dried-fruit sweetness and nutty overtones.

4. Balance your budget of quality versus price. Making Vin Santo is a long and laborious process. The price tag for this wine reflects the work and time invested.

5. Enjoy Vin Santo with dessert. A glass of sweet or dry Vin Santo served with "Cantucci," Tuscan nut cookies, makes a traditional dessert. Vin Santo wine pairs well with almost any dessert, from simple to complex. Fruit, pastries and ice cream are all great choices.

Tips & Warnings

• Opened bottles of Vin Santo can be stored for up one year.

• Vin Santo can be an ingredient in many wonderful desserts.