Introduction
The 2020 Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a quintessential Tuscan red that showcases the power, depth, and elegance of Sangiovese from Montepulciano. Poliziano, a renowned estate with a deep commitment to quality, produces this wine primarily from Prugnolo Gentile, the local clone of Sangiovese, capturing the unique character of Montepulciano’s terroir. This Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a structured, age-worthy wine with a refined balance between ripe fruit, earthy minerality, and well-integrated oak.

Terrior
Montepulciano is located in southeastern Tuscany, and its rolling hills have soils rich in clay, limestone, and sand, ideal for Sangiovese. The region’s warm, sunny days and cooler nights allow for gradual ripening, which helps retain acidity while developing complex flavors in the grapes. Poliziano’s vineyards are situated at high elevations, which contribute to the wine’s freshness and vibrant character, balancing the natural richness of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Appearance
Deep ruby with garnet hues at the rim, suggesting both youthful vibrancy and potential for aging. The wine shows medium-high viscosity, hinting at its concentration and body.

Nose
The nose is complex and inviting, with aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and red currant. These primary fruit notes are layered with hints of violet, leather, and earthy undertones, such as forest floor and tobacco. Subtle oak influence brings nuances of vanilla, cedar, and a touch of baking spice, adding depth without overshadowing the fruit.

Palate
On the palate, the 2020 Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is medium to full-bodied, with a rich texture and fine-grained tannins. The core flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, and red plum are balanced by earthy notes of dried herbs, tobacco, and a slight mineral edge. The wine’s acidity is bright and well-integrated, providing freshness that lifts the fruit and complements the tannic structure. Oak aging contributes a hint of spice, cocoa, and smoothness to the palate.

Finish
The finish is long and refined, with lingering flavors of dark fruit, a touch of spice, and a pleasant earthy minerality. The tannins are present but polished, suggesting that the wine will continue to age gracefully over the next 8-10 years.

Overall Impression
The 2020 Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a well-balanced and elegant expression of Tuscan Sangiovese. Its complexity, structure, and length make it a classic representation of Montepulciano’s Vino Nobile, appealing to lovers of structured Italian reds. This wine pairs beautifully with Tuscan dishes like wild boar ragù, grilled meats, or aged Pecorino cheese. While approachable now, it has the potential to develop even more complexity with further aging.

Published Rankings
James Suckling Rating: 93
Robert Parker Rating: 92
Vinous Rating: 91
Wine Spectator: 91

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Poliziano
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Italy
Region: Tuscany, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG
Grape Varietals: Predominantly Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile), with small amounts of Colorino and Canaiolo
Vintage: 2020
Wine Style: Red, Medium to Full-Bodied
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel, aged for 18-24 months in a mix of French oak barrels and large casks
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork