At a glance

Producer

Poliziano

Region

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile dominant)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$60

Tasting profile

Dark cherry and ripe plum fruit, earthy underbrush, hints of spice and leather, with cedar oak influence

Evolution: Develops more complex tertiary notes such as truffle, tobacco, and forest floor over the next decade

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit and tertiary aromas, silky tannins, long refined finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, refreshing acidity typical of Sangiovese

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated

Alcohol

Around 14-14.5%

Aging potential

20+ years expected, given traditional production and vintage quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2050

Optimal window

2023 to 2053

Current status

Approaching early drinking maturity but still developing structure

Current condition

Showing tertiary notes emerging with firm tannins and balanced acidity

The 2018 vintage in Vino Nobile di Montepulciano was very good with warm growing season, allowing full phenolic ripeness. The estate Aninone vineyard provides structured wines with good balance of acidity and ripe tannins suited for long aging. Poliziano’s traditional winemaking approach fosters slow development of aromatic complexity and tannin softening.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled red meats, game dishes, aged cheeses, rich mushroom risottos, and Tuscan-style roasted lamb or beef.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and open complex aromas, especially important for younger vintages

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

The producer employs integrated pest management, water conservation techniques, and limits synthetic chemical use; energy-efficient winery operations with some use of solar power; packaging uses lightweight glass and recyclable materials

Poliziano is regarded as a leader in balancing traditional production with sustainable farming. They implement soil health programs, biodiversity preservation, and limiting agrochemical use. While not fully organic or biodynamic certified, their adherence to FIVI’s code supports environmental and social sustainability. Packaging choices and modern winery operations contribute to lowering their carbon footprint relative to peers in Tuscany.