Montepulciano May Be Confusing…But It’s Worth Figuring Out
Gaining expertise in Italian wine is notoriously difficult, and the confusion within the category is perfectly embodied in the issue of Montepulciano wine, which, depending on what you’re talking about, can mean two very distinct wines that aren’t even from the same region. Let’s try to untangle it all. It’s not as complicated as you may think.
What kind of wine is Montepulciano?
And where does Montepulciano wine come from? Two different wines have the name Montepulciano in them. First is Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, which is from the region of Abruzzo and made from the Montepulciano grape variety. Next is Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine (also called Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG), which is from Tuscany, near Brunello di Montalcino, and is made from Sangiovese grapes. There is also Rosso di Montepulciano, which is a red wine produced primarily from Sangiovese grapes that don’t entirely adhere to all of the Italian laws governing the production of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. No matter which one you’re asking for, Montepulciano wine pronunciation should sound like mahn-teh-pull-chee-AH-no.
What are popular brands of Montepulciano wine?
It takes a quick look at the shelves in the Italian section of your local Total Wine & More to see that there are many fantastic Montepulciano wine brands to consider. Even massive international grocery chains carry worthy ones: A brief Internet search of, say, “Montepulciano wine Tesco” or “Montepulciani wine Lidl” will result in excellent options. But we think that Total Wine & More has the best selection and the most knowledgeable associates to help you navigate the often confusing world of Montepulciano wine, whether you’re talking about the Tuscany wine version or the Abruzzo one.
What does Montepulciano wine taste like?
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano typically tastes like dark cherries, mixed mountain berries, leather, cigar tobacco, and spice, occasionally with a hint of dried violets. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo tends to be more delicately structured, with bright cherry and plum, as well as dried herbs and sweet spices. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano often pairs well with mushrooms and meat dishes, whereas Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a classic wine for pizza and pasta. Both are incredibly versatile at the table…or just delicious on their own.
Is Montepulciano sweet or dry?
In general, both Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo are dry wines. However, there are some examples of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo that have been made from grapes that are a bit riper. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2015 tends to be somewhat more fruity, for example—and aged in new oak barrels that can have a hint of sweet vanilla. In general, however, both are dry wines.
What is Montepulciano similar to?
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, because it’s based on Sangiovese, is similar to other great wines produced from that grape variety, like Brunello di Montalcino. Some people find similarities between Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and high-end Chianti, too. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is often enjoyed by people who also love Valpolicella, which, though not made from the same grapes or in the same region, also boasts a juicy, food-friendly character and a similarly approachable price.
Is Montepulciano a blend?
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is required to have at least 70% Sangiovese, but other grape varieties can be blended into it. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo has to be crafted from at least 85% Montepulciano grapes, with others blended into it permitted.
Browse our full selection of Montepulciano wine online or check out our highly rated Montepulciano wine for a great new Montepulciano wine to try this week!