Avignonesi Rosso di Montepulciano 2024

The Rosso di Montepulciano from the Avignonesi estate comes from the clay-limestone hills surrounding the town of Montepulciano, in the heart of Tuscany, central Italy. The vines are situated at medium altitude on well-exposed slopes, benefiting from a continental climate tempered by Mediterranean influences. The soils, composed of marl, clay, and sand, promote good drainage and allow the Sangiovese grape to express the great aromatic freshness and elegant structure typical of the Rosso di Montepulciano appellation.

The grapes for Rosso di Montepulciano from the Avignonesi estate are harvested at optimal ripeness, carefully sorted, and then vinified as a red wine with alcoholic fermentation in tanks, accompanied by regular pump-overs to extract color and structure. Malolactic fermentation then takes place to soften the tannins and harmonize the aromatic profile. Aging occurs primarily in large oak casks and other large wooden containers, supplemented by a portion in tanks, to preserve the fruit and freshness while imparting a silky and balanced texture.

This wine reveals notes of red cherry , crisp red berries , and plum , complemented by floral touches reminiscent of violet and peony, as well as delicate spicy and slightly balsamic nuances. On the palate, the wine is juicy and supple, supported by a lively acidity that lengthens the tasting, fine and polished tannins , and a fresh , luscious, and harmonious finish that highlights the easy-drinking character of this Rosso.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!