The Tuscan town of Montepulciano gives its name to Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, an historic Sangiovese-based red (here the clone is called Prugnolo Gentile). Sitting stylistically between bright Chianti and powerful Brunello, it offers dark cherry, plum, violet, dried herbs and earth, with savoury tannin and fresh acidity. One of Tuscany's oldest noble wines, it is often excellent value beside its more famous neighbours.
Structure
| Body | Not to be confused with the Montepulciano grape of Abruzzo, Vino Nobile must be at least 70% Sangiovese. Required ageing (longer for Riserva) gives structure and complexity. Its hillside vineyards around the beautiful Renaissance town make characterful, food-friendly reds. |
|---|---|
| Acidity | High, fresh. |
| Tannin | Medium to high, savoury. |
| Finish | Savoury and long, with cherry, plum and earth. |
| Aroma | Dark cherry, plum, violet, dried herbs and leather. |
Serving: 16–18°C (60–64°F). · Decanting: 30–45 minutes for Riserva.
Montepulciano (Vino Nobile) drinking window
| Tier | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| Rosso di Montepulciano | Drink within 2–5 years. |
| Vino Nobile | Best 4–12 years. |
| Riserva | 8–20 years. |
| Vintage | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Drinking well now. |
| 2019 | Hold to 2031. |
| 2020 | Drink now to 2032. |
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Montepulciano (Vino Nobile) — questions answered
Is Vino Nobile the same as Montepulciano d'Abruzzo?
No — Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a Tuscan Sangiovese wine; Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is made from the unrelated Montepulciano grape in Abruzzo.
What grape is Vino Nobile made from?
Mainly Sangiovese, locally called Prugnolo Gentile, by at least 70%, often with small amounts of other local grapes.
How does it compare to Brunello and Chianti?
It sits between them — more structured than most Chianti, a touch lighter and often better value than Brunello.
What food pairs with Vino Nobile?
Roast pork, grilled lamb, mushroom dishes and Tuscan cuisine suit its savoury, food-friendly profile.