Wine description

This wine is only produced in years with 4 or 5 stars, and is made from manually selected best grapes from the vineyards that also produce the classic Vino Nobile. The vineyards are between 10 and 35 years old and are located on Pliocene clay soils at an altitude between 350 and 450 meters above sea level, with a southeast exposure.

The grape variety used is Sangiovese, known as “Prugnolo Gentile” in Montepulciano, with small percentages of other indigenous red grapes.

The vines are grown using the cordone speronato system, and approximately 4,500 vines per hectare are planted.

After manual harvest, which usually takes place from the third week of September, the grapes are selected and destemmed, and the obtained juice is fermented with selected yeasts. This phase takes place in steel and concrete tanks for about 20-21 days at a temperature between 26 and 28°C. At the same time, maceration on the skins also takes place, which lasts 20-21 days and requires daily remontages. After draining, the wine is placed in steel tanks or oak barrels, where it undergoes malolactic fermentation. After this phase, the wine is transferred to oak barrels (French and Slavonian) of 5 to 20 hl, where it remains for 36 months to mature. During this period, transfers are carried out every 6 months. After maturation, the wine is decanted for 4-6 months in steel tanks before being bottled. The wine remains in the bottle for another 12 months before being released to the market.

Approximately 10,000-12,000 bottles of this wine are produced. The best vintages are 2001, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2012, 2015 and 2016 (last 20 years). The wine reaches maturity after 25-35 years after the harvest, and the maturation plateau is between 5 and 18 years.

The Contucci farm has been owned by the Contucci family since the 11th century and covers an area of 170 hectares, of which 22.5 hectares are planted with vineyards, 7 hectares with olive groves, and 141 hectares with fields and woods. The agronomic and oenological aspects are directly taken care of by the owners.

Food pairing

Contucci’s Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a high-quality wine with a rich and complex flavor profile. Its aromas of ripe cherries, plums, and blackberries are beautifully complemented by notes of vanilla, spices, and leather. In the mouth, the wine is velvety and full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long finish.

The Slow Food movement rightly included this wine on its list of the best Vino Nobiles, as Contucci produces it with great respect for tradition and the land. The grapes are handpicked and carefully selected, after which the wine is slowly aged in oak barrels.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano pairs perfectly with local specialties from this region. Try the wine with a juicy Bistecca di Chianina, served with roasted Agretti or Barba di Frate and crispy bread. The wine is also a true taste sensation with local cheeses from Pienza.

In short, Contucci’s Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a must-try for anyone who loves high-quality wines with a rich, complex flavor and a respectful background.

The winery

Contucci is a winery with a rich history dating back to the year 1000. In the 14th century, the Contucci family members were already one of the most prominent families in Montepulciano. The winery boasts a beautiful salon adorned with frescoes from 1702 by the famous Andrea Pozzo, and the family is represented by a coat of arms featuring an upright unicorn on a blue field, symbolizing pride and truth.

Throughout the centuries, family members have held various important positions, including Gonfalonieri, a position granted only to distinguished families and accompanied by high costs. Some family members were also active as scholars and artists, such as Giulio Contuccio, a doctor of civil and canon law at the University of Pisa and one of the founders of the Colonia Arcadica of Montepulciano.

In the 19th century, the family produced Giuseppe Contucci as one of the first “Vino Nobile” wines and constantly strived for quality and innovation in wine production. Today, the Contucci family continues this tradition by continuing to improve their wines and enjoying a reputation as excellent winemakers.

Tuscany

Tuscany is a region in Italy known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture and history, and culinary traditions. But Tuscany is also one of the most important wine regions in the world, with some of the most prestigious wines out there.

In the rolling hills of Tuscany, you’ll find the vineyards of Chianti, where the famous Chianti Classico is produced. This wine has a robust flavor and is made from the Sangiovese grape, supplemented with other grapes such as Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are also world-famous wines produced in Tuscany.

In addition to red wines, Tuscany also has a delicious white wine, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano. This wine is produced in the hills around the medieval town of San Gimignano and has a fresh and mineral taste.

Tuscany is also home to the Super Tuscan wines, which are produced in the Bolgheri area on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea. These wines are often made from a combination of grape varieties such as Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

Whether you’re a fan of red or white wine, Tuscany has something for everyone. Combine a visit to the historic cities and beautiful landscapes of Tuscany with a wine tasting at one of the many vineyards in the region. Discover the flavors and aromas of the different wines and enjoy the culinary delights of the region.

Explore Tuscany and its wines and taste the passion and tradition of this beautiful wine region in Italy.