This post has been sponsored by Avignonesi. All opinions expressed are my own. This message is intended for those 21+. Please enjoy responsibly.
Today we're taking a look at Avignonesi Nobile di Montepulciano 2020, produced from 100% Sangiovese grapes (Prugnolo Gentile). Below, we'll be talking a little about the winery, the terroir, and of course reviewing the wine itself, before offering pairing suggestions.
Now, without further introduction, let's get tasting.
Wine Overview
Quick Facts
- Winery: This wine was produced by Avignonesi, a historic and highly-regarded Tuscan winery, which has earned a name for itself as a leader in organic and biodynamic viticulture, and as a top producer of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
- Grape Varietals: This wine is produced from 100% Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile). While the DOCG requires a minimum of 70% Sangiovese, Avignonesi prides itself on its commitment to a 100% Sangiovese wine.
- ABV: This wine is 13.5% alcohol by volume.
- Price: About $18 to $30, depending on outlet and region.
Region - Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy
Montepulciano is a historic hilltop town located in southern Tuscany, offering a picturesque view of the rolling Tuscan countryside. Montepulciano is renowned for producing highly acclaimed, age-worthy red wines from the region's signature Sangiovese grape, known within Montepulciano itself as Prugnolo Gentile.
The vineyards are planted at altitudes between 250 and 600 meters above sea level, and benefit from the area's Mediterranean climate, as well as large diurnal temperature variations. While Montepulciano sits on a largely limestone hill, the vineyards' soil is a mix of clay, sand, and (unsurprisingly) limestone, which combines to create excellent drainage, while contributing to the wine's rich minerality.
Aromatic and Tasting Notes
On the Nose
The Nobile di Montepulciano 2020 introduces itself with fresh red fruits and lush floral notes. Ripe red cherries waft off the top of the glass, with red plums and raspberries deeper into the glass. Aromas of violet and hints of hibiscus frame the red fruits beautifully, with rose-like floral notes dominating deeper into the glass. Earthy spice notes linger in the background, laced with syrupy vanilla. Hints of tobacco, tilled soil, and just a touch of tomato leaf punctuate the bouquet - though that could very well be me lingering on the nose too long.
On the Palate
On the palate, the wine is instantly and decidedly medium-bodied and excellently balanced. The sweet red fruits from the bouquet carry over deliciously, especially as ripe cherries and plum jam, with just a hint of background herbs. These flavors are accentuated by a lively acidity that graces the wine with a refreshing quality that heightens, rather than detracts, from the overall complexity. Tannins are precise, elegant, and silky, and very well-integrated, never overpowering - even on second and third sips. Delicious.
Finish
The finish is lasting, leaving mineral and licorice notes on the palate.
Food Pairings
This is a 100% Sangiovese wine; as such, all the usual Sangiovese pairings apply here.
Tuscan Favorites:
- Red Meat: Sangiovese has an enduring love affair with Bistecca ala Fiorentina (Florentine steak), which is the by-the-book pairing for any Sangiovese-led wine. Beyond that, aim for rich, meaty entrees. A prime rib prepared with a curry and cayenne-based rub mixed with garlic, coriander, and cumin would pair excellently. You might also consider an herb-roasted rack of lamb, prepared with a mix of honey, oregano, garlic, and basil.
- Game Meats: Pairing Sangiovese with venison, wild boar, or duck is always a delicious choice, especially when prepared with Italian herbs and garlic.
- Pasta with Red Meat and Red Sauce: Pappardelle with wild boar ragu would be my go-to. That said, a classic Beef Bolognese, a spicy marinara, and a simple lasagna. In general, this wine is delicious alongside hearty tomato sauces with red meats.
- Aged Cheese: Try pairing this wine alongside a cheeseboard featuring hard, sharp cheeses, especially Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano-Reggiano. This pairing works especially well when combined with cured meats.
- Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of a mushroom risotto would harmonize beautifully with this particular wine.
Wine Score and Verdict
The Score
This wine was very pleasant, from its red fruit bouquet to its balanced palate and layered finish. As an excellent expression of the Sangiovese varietal, I'll score this wine a very respectable 91 out of 100.
Who is this wine for?
Those looking for an accessible priced introduction to Tuscan wine will find a delicious entry point in this bottle. Beyond that, if you're a collector looking for age-worthy bottles, or consider yourself a discerning drinker who will appreciate the fine nuances of a Vino Nobile, this is the bottle for you.
Where to Buy
For this particular bottle, wine.com and wineVIP.com are both great choices.
And that's our review of the Avignonesi Nobile di Montepulciano 2020. If you tried this wine, or any of the pairings, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you.
Cheers!
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