White Cuvee ANNITA 2019

Il Rio ANNITA 2019 is a rare and distinctive Tuscan white cuvée from the picturesque hills of Mugello, produced by Paolo Cerrini and Manuela Villimburgo at their tiny family estate near Vicchio, north of Florence. An unusual blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Nero vinified as a white wine and Sauvignon Blanc, ANNITA combines Burgundian inspiration with the freshness and individuality of Tuscany's Apennine foothills.

The estate's small vineyards benefit from clay-rich soils, a cool continental climate and pronounced day-to-night temperature variations, conditions that preserve aromatic intensity and natural acidity. The grapes are carefully hand-harvested, with pre-fermentation maceration for the Chardonnay and white vinification of the Pinot Nero. Fermentation takes place in oak barriques, with partial malolactic fermentation, followed by further refinement in bottle.

The 2019 displays an attractive deep straw-gold colour and an expressive bouquet of ripe pear, golden apple, citrus zest, tropical fruit and white blossoms, complemented by sweet spices, toasted almonds and subtle creamy nuances. On the palate, it is dry, beautifully textured and harmonious, combining ripe orchard fruit with refreshing acidity, gentle oak influence and a long, elegant finish.

Now 7 years old in 2026, ANNITA 2019 offers the fascinating complexity of a mature, barrel-fermented white wine. Its ripe fruit and creamy texture are complemented by developing notes of honey, toasted nuts and gentle spice, while the wine's underlying freshness maintains balance and elegance.

The 2019 vintage is particularly noteworthy, achieving an impressive 4.4/5 on Vivino – the highest-rated vintage listed for ANNITA. A published tasting also highlights its citrus and tropical-fruit aromas, white flowers, sweet spices and excellent freshness.

A beautifully mature Tuscan white – rich, aromatic and wonderfully textured, with an elegant balance of ripe fruit, creamy complexity and refreshing acidity. An excellent opportunity to enjoy a distinctive seven-year-old white wine.

International Recognition – 2019 Vintage

4.4/5 – Vivino

Highest-rated ANNITA vintage currently listed on Vivino.

Stefano Giovannini – ApeTime Magazine (2023)

A positive vintage-specific tasting review highlighting citrus, tropical fruit, white flowers, sweet spice, freshness and persistence.