# Asinone Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (2020)

- **Producer:** Poliziano
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Tuscany, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €55
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, red plum, red cherry, black cherry, dried fruit, cedar, vanilla, smoke, cloves, earth, tobacco, leather, forest floor

## About this wine

Asinone Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is produced by Poliziano in the renowned Tuscan region of Montepulciano. The wine originates from the Asinone vineyard, considered the estate's premier site, and is primarily made from Sangiovese grapes. The Asinone vineyard's unique topography and the estate's dedication to quality viticulture contribute to its distinctive character. Poliziano, founded in 1961, is a family-run estate now managed by the third generation, Federico Carletti, who upholds a philosophy of respecting tradition while embracing innovation. The 2020 vintage benefited from favorable weather conditions, resulting in a well-structured wine.

## Interesting facts

- The Asinone vineyard is named for its distinctive 'donkey's back' shape.
- The vineyard boasts vines over fifty years old, contributing to the wine's complexity.
- Poliziano's estate is organically farmed.
- Asinone is considered the flagship wine of Poliziano.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and robust tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. The acidity helps to cut through fatty elements, cleansing the palate, while the wine's savory notes can echo herbs and earthy flavors in the dishes.

## Wine making process

The Asinone Vino Nobile di Montepulciano undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures for approximately 20-25 days, with some instances of spontaneous fermentation lasting 25-30 days and employing continuous pumping over. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 16-18 months in French oak tonneaux. Harvest is a meticulous process, involving hand-picking followed by a secondary manual selection of the grapes. The estate practices organic farming, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment. The overall approach to winemaking at Poliziano balances tradition with innovative techniques.