Montepulciano: A Region in Transition

The Montepulciano region has emerged as a hub of innovation in Tuscany, balancing tradition with forward-thinking practices. The home of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Montepulciano is defined by its focus on Sangiovese, locally known as Prugnolo Gentile. The appellation requires wines to include a minimum of 70% Sangiovese, with producers increasingly moving toward single-varietal bottlings to showcase the unique terroir. Avignonesi, one of the most notable estates in the area, has taken this trend a step further by committing to 100% Sangiovese wines, setting a benchmark for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Avignonesi Winery: History and Vision

Founded in 1974 and named after the Avignonesi family, the winery underwent a transformative period beginning in 2009 when it was acquired by Virginie Saverys. Her vision has been to place terroir at the forefront of Avignonesi wine production. Under her leadership, Avignonesi has focused on organic and biodynamic farming, making the estate one of the leading proponents of sustainable viticulture in Tuscany. With 102 hectares dedicated to Sangiovese across 70 vineyard plots, Avignonesi's commitment to expressing the Montepulciano terroir through single-vineyard bottlings has been widely recognized.

Poggetto di Sopra: An Expression of Terroir

The Avignonesi Poggetto di Sopra Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG is crafted from a single vineyard parcel planted in 1978. The estate’s focus on minimal intervention in the vineyard and cellar allows the wine to reflect its origins. The Caprile vineyard, located at an altitude of 300 meters, features a mix of silt, limestone, sand, and clay-limestone soils. These soils are low in organic matter, creating conditions that challenge the vines and enhance the character of the grapes.

Fermentation utilizes native yeasts, ensuring the integrity of the wine. The Poggetto di Sopra spends 21 months aging in 500-liter oak casks, resulting in a structure that complements its varietal purity. A notable characteristic of this wine is its high content of quercetin, a natural antioxidant, which sometimes leaves visible sediment in the bottle. This feature is a hallmark of its production process and pure Sangiovese composition.

2018 Vintage: Critical Acclaim

The 2018 vintage of Avignonesi Poggetto di Sopra has been met with praise from international critics. James Suckling, Wine Spectator, and Vinous each awarded the wine 94, 94, and 93 points, respectively, highlighting its quality and authenticity. This vintage underscores Avignonesi's dedication to crafting wines that convey a strong sense of place while adhering to the highest standards of production.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: Regulations and Evolution

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano has a long history of blending regional and international varieties. However, producers like Avignonesi are steering the appellation toward greater emphasis on Sangiovese, often opting for single-varietal expressions. This shift mirrors broader trends in Tuscany, such as in Chianti Classico and Montalcino, but it also reflects a growing understanding of Montepulciano’s distinctive terroirs. While the inclusion of other local varieties like Canaiolo, Mammolo, and Colorino remains an option, the move toward 100% Sangiovese wines has helped establish a clearer identity for the region.

The Montepulciano Context

Montepulciano's position as a neighbor to Montalcino has often led to comparisons, particularly regarding the success of Sangiovese-based wines. However, Montepulciano's diverse soils and microclimates set it apart. The Alliance project, which includes Avignonesi, Salcheto, Poliziano, La Braccesca, and Boscarelli, has been instrumental in promoting the region’s potential. Each producer has crafted a 100% Sangiovese cru to showcase the character of Montepulciano’s terroir, further solidifying the area’s reputation for quality.

Avignonesi Poggetto di Sopra and Market Position

The Avignonesi Poggetto di Sopra offers a detailed lesson in Montepulciano’s terroir. Its production reflects a commitment to showcasing the region’s marine-influenced soils and unique microclimates. With vineyards managed biodynamically and wines produced with minimal intervention, Avignonesi continues to redefine the standards of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. According to Wine-Searcher, the 2018 vintage of Avignonesi Poggetto di Sopra is competitively priced at €33.61 at Lambier Wines, making it a compelling option for those seeking an authentic expression of Montepulciano.

Conclusion

Avignonesi Poggetto di Sopra Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG represents the confluence of tradition and innovation in Tuscany. By emphasizing 100% Sangiovese and focusing on site-specific characteristics, Avignonesi has positioned itself as a leader in the region’s ongoing transformation. For those looking to explore the potential of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, the Poggetto di Sopra is an essential wine that captures the essence of Montepulciano’s terroir and Avignonesi’s dedication to quality.