San Marino

San Marino is one of the smallest European countries, consisting of just 61 square kilometers. I had never linked wine and San Marino together, but since the place is completely surrounded by Italy, squeezed between Emilia-Romagna and Marche, I guess it shouldn’t have been a surprise to find some on my recent stop there.

Although I suppose there might be other spots to visit in the tiny country, the main attraction is the City of San Marino (basically a medieval style town) perched at the summit of Monte Titano. The steep, almost vertical, slopes around the summit make you feel as if you are on the observation deck of a giant skyscraper.

San Marino, with one of the highest GDPs in the world, thrives on tourism. And tourism is about the only way to get to taste any of their wines as there is too little to export. Red wines are based on Sangiovese and white wines on Ribolla and Muscato. Perhaps the best way to sample some is to enjoy a meal at one of the many tiny restaurants scattered among the narrow streets/walkways of the city.

The wines I sipped were modest in scope, but suitably pleasant accompaniment for lunch. Even better, especially at a restaurant in a tourist mecca, the prices were quite attractive.

There are also several wine and spirits outlets who will offer you a taste. The spirits are at least as interesting as the wines. Amazing things can be done with plum brandy! San Marino – worth the visit!

Wine Show

The annual NLC Wine Show gets going on Thursday, November 14. Tickets are still available for Thursday and Friday night, and Saturday afternoon. Lunch on Saturday and the Saturday night tasting are already sold out. If you are particularly keen several agents are hosting tasting events and offer pre-sales opportunities.

Future Postings: Italy, Croatia, and some local tasting events.

** Watch for an upcoming announcement on a wine and food tour! **