The Cellar
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
The short answer
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is an elegant Tuscan red made primarily from the Prugnolo Gentile grape, a local clone of Sangiovese. It is prized for its balance of bright fruit, floral notes, and refined tannins.
- Style
- Elegant Tuscan Sangiovese
- Glass
- Standard red wine glass
- Strength
- 13.5% – 14.5% (Varies by producer)
Where it comes from
This wine has a long-standing reputation and was esteemed by Italian nobility for centuries. It was among the very first wines to receive Italy's prestigious DOCG designation in 1980, cementing its status.
What you need
- 750ml bottle of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
- Serving temperature: 62°F / 17°C
How Larry builds it
- 01
Preparation. Keep the bottle at a cellar temperature of around 62°F (17°C). Open the wine about 30 minutes before serving to allow its aromas to open up.
- 02
Glassware. Use a standard red wine glass. Its shape helps concentrate the delicate violet and red berry aromas characteristic of the Prugnolo Gentile grape.
- 03
Serving and Pairing. Serve alongside classic Tuscan fare. It pairs well with roast pork, medium-aged cheeses like Pecorino, or pasta with a meat ragù.
Larry’s rule: Not the same as Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. Larry learned this at full volume.
Variations worth making
Vino Nobile Riserva
Aged for a longer period (a minimum of 3 years total) to develop more complex tobacco and spice notes.
Rosso di Montepulciano
A younger, fresher, and more fruit-forward version from the same region, typically aged for a shorter period and meant for earlier consumption.
Questions people ask
Is this the same as Montepulciano d'Abruzzo?
No. Vino Nobile is a Sangiovese-based wine from the town of Montepulciano in Tuscany. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is made from the Montepulciano grape in the Abruzzo region.
What is Prugnolo Gentile?
Prugnolo Gentile is the local name for the Sangiovese grape clone grown in the Montepulciano area, which forms the base of this wine.
How long must Vino Nobile be aged?
Standard Vino Nobile must be aged for at least two years before release, with a portion of that time spent in wood barrels.
What does it taste like?
It is a medium-to-full-bodied wine known for flavors of cherry, plum, and violet, with savory notes of leather and spice developing with age.
What to eat with it
Pour it like Larry
The decanters, openers and glasses Larry keeps behind the bar.
Le Chateau Hand-Blown Crystal Wine Decanter with AeratorView on Amazon →
RBT Wine Decanter with Sediment Strainer & AeratorView on Amazon →
Chateau La Derive Swan Decanter Gift SetView on Amazon →
1800ml Lead-Free Crystal Wine Decanter SetView on Amazon →
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Order Vino Nobile di Montepulciano with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
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Franciacorta Riserva
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Quoting or citing this drink? Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” and link to https://unclelarryadventures.com/beverages/vino-nobile.