Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The grapes grow in suitable vineyard areas within the municipality of Montepulciano, at approximately 350 m above sea level. The predominantly loose soils are rich in marine clay. Planting density for the 2018 wine was 4,000–5,000 vines per hectare, with average production of 6 tonnes of grapes per hectare and a grape-to-wine yield of approximately 65%.
Grapes
Predominantly Sangiovese in the local Prugnolo Gentile biotype. The selected 2018 technical sheet describes that vintage as 100% Prugnolo Gentile; exact proportions are not given for the newer 2020 vintage.
Vinification
For the 2018 vintage, fermentation and maceration took place in stainless-steel tanks at a controlled 26–28°C, with at least 15 days on the skins.
Ageing
The current maturation specification is at least 24 months, including one year in wood, followed by bottle refinement. The 2018 technical sheet gives a more detailed vintage-specific regime: 20 months in 35-hl Slavonian oak barrels followed by at least six months in bottle.
Technical data
Alcohol: 13.5%. Bottle format: 750 ml for the 2019 shop release. Ageing potential: up to 15 years. The first vintage was 1997.
Tasting profile
The 2020 is bright ruby red. Ripe fruit, leather and complex spice emerge on the nose. The palate is intense and full-bodied, finishing with silky, fruit-toned tannins. The wine’s structure and aromatic intensity suit extended ageing.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18–20°C. A suggested pairing is pork stuffed with rabbit, liver and Savoy cabbage, accompanied by onion pie.
Vintage notes
The 2018 technical sheet also records citrus nuances alongside ripe fruit, leather and spice. Its detailed maturation regime comprises 20 months in Slavonian oak and at least six months in bottle; the newer general specification calls for at least 24 months of maturation, including one year in wood.
