The story of Est! Est! Est! is an intriguing tale that dates back to the 12th century in the picturesque town of Montefiascone, Italy. It all began when a German Bishop named Johannes Fugger embarked on a journey to Rome to visit the Pope. Along his route, he sent his trusted servant, Martin, ahead of him to taste the wines and leave messages on the walls of inns and taverns they encountered.
Martin had a discerning palate and was tasked with the important duty of determining which wines were worthy of the Bishop's attention. To simplify the process, Martin would write the word “Est” on the walls of establishments that offered exceptional wines. However, when he arrived in Montefiascone, he was so captivated by the quality of the local white wine that he couldn't contain his excitement. He wrote “Est! Est! Est!” on the wall of a tavern, indicating that the wine was not just good, but truly exceptional.
Legend has it that Martin was so enchanted by the wine of Montefiascone that he decided to stay there, indulging in the local delicacy until his untimely demise. Some versions of the story claim that he drank himself to death, while others suggest he simply couldn't bear to leave the exquisite wine behind. Regardless, his devotion to the wine and his enthusiastic proclamation on the tavern wall immortalized the name “Est! Est! Est!” as a symbol of excellence and quality.
The wine that Martin fell in love with is a crisp and refreshing white wine made primarily from the Trebbiano grape, also known as Ugni Blanc. The volcanic soil of Montefiascone lends unique characteristics to the wine, imparting it with a distinct minerality and vibrant acidity. This terroir, combined with meticulous winemaking techniques, results in a wine that is highly regarded for its balance, complexity, and ability to age gracefully.
Over the centuries, the story of Est! Est! Est! has become intertwined with the identity of Montefiascone and its winemaking traditions. The town celebrates its famous wine with festivals and events, attracting wine enthusiasts from around the world. Today, Est! Est! Est! is protected by a Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) designation, ensuring that the wine produced in Montefiascone adheres to strict quality standards.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting Est! Est! Est! on several occasions. Each sip transports me to the enchanting vineyards of Montefiascone, where the sun-drenched grapes ripen to perfection. The wine's vibrant acidity and delicate floral notes make it a delightful companion to seafood dishes, particularly shellfish and light, creamy sauces. Its versatility also allows it to pair well with a variety of other cuisines, making it a versatile and enjoyable wine to explore.
The story of Est! Est! Est! is a testament to the power of a single taste and the enduring impact it can have on both individuals and a region. It serves as a reminder to savor the simple pleasures in life and to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into producing exceptional wines. So, the next time you raise a glass of Est! Est! Est!, take a moment to toast to the legacy of Martin and the enduring allure of Montefiascone's most famous white wine.