Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Red and red Riserva are the two types of wine that fall under the Protected Designation of Origin "Vino Nobile di Montepulciano", which falls under the category of DOCG.
Grapes
Sangiovese is the predominant grape variety in the production of "Vino Nobile di Montepulciano". Its grapes, in fact, represent at least 70% of the total. These can be accompanied by grapes from complementary varieties suitable for cultivation in Tuscany as long as the percentage of white grapes does not exceed 5%. However, aromatic varieties are excluded, with the exception of white Malvasia only.
Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a very structured red wine, which is characterized by a ruby color that aging tends to garnet. It releases an intense and ethereal perfume, enriched by fruity, floral and spicy notes, in particular violet and black cherry. The palate is balanced and elegant, with an evident tannicity. The minimum total alcholic strength by volume is 12,50% vol, which rises to 13,00% vol in the Riserva variant.
Grape production area
The production area coincides with a portion of the municipality of Montepulciano, in the province of Siena. A limited hilly area that does not exceed 600 meters above sea level and is characterized by a Mediterranean climate.
Specificity and historical notes
This particular type of wine produced in Montepulciano has always had a noble character, because it is intended for sale and not for use by the family. Historically, several quotations can be found, especially in documents of a historical or mercantile nature. From the point of view of vinification, one of the most characteristic elements is that of ageing. The Nobile di Montepulciano, in fact, is subjected to 24 months of aging, which can all spend in wooden barrels, or even in the bottle and other containers (provided in the wood is at least half the time).
Source: MIPAAF - Ministry of agricultural, food and forestry policies