One of the many reasons I love Sangiovese is how beautifully it expresses the diverse terroirs of Tuscany. Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Brunello di Montalcino may be Tuscany’s best-known Sangiovese-based wines, but Vino Nobile di Montepulciano also has a rich history and authentic sense of place.
Contucci's vineyards in Montepulciano
image courtesy of Contucci
I recently tasted Contucci Rosso di Montepulciano 2018 DOC ($29.99) and Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2015 DOCG ($39.99). If you’re not too familiar with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Contucci is a lovely introduction. The Contucci family is one of the oldest in Montepulciano; their roots in the region can be traced back to the eleventh century and their historic cellars are from the thirteenth century. Sangiovese grapes in the Contucci vineyards
image courtesy of Contucci
First things first – don’t confuse Vino Nobile di Montepulciano with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, the latter is from a different region and made from the Montepulciano grape. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano hails from a specific zone in southern Tuscany and must contain at least 70% Sangiovese, which is locally known as “Prugnolo Gentile”. Contucci's historic cellars
image courtesy of Contucci
Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2015 is a blend of 80% Sangiovese and 10% each of Colorino and Canaiolo Nero. Aged for 24 months in big oak barrels, with an additional 6 months of bottle aging, the wine elegantly balances freshness with layered flavors of fruit, spice, and earth. Finesse and flavor!
Contucci Rosso di Montepulciano 2018 is the flirty and fresher counterpart to the Vino Nobile. 80% Sangiovese and 20% Canaiolo Nero, the Rosso was aged for 6 months in large oak barrels and an additional 3 months in bottle. Fruit-forward and juicy with bright flavors of crisp and crunchy black cherries; this sip has a straightforward and approachable style that is very appealing. Both Contucci wines were lovely reminders that I really should drink more Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
