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Vino Nobile di Montepulciano vs Brunello di Montalcino

Feb 83 min read

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano vs Brunello di Montalcino

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

1. History and Origin

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:

Hailing from the hilltop town of Montepulciano in southeastern Tuscany, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is one of Italy’s oldest documented wines, mentioned as early as the 14th century. Its name, “Nobile,” reflects its historical connection to noble families who prized it for its elegance and quality. The wine was one of the first to achieve DOCG status in 1980, highlighting its historical significance and ongoing commitment to excellence.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Produced in the picturesque town of Montalcino in southern Tuscany, Brunello di Montalcino emerged as a distinct wine in the 19th century, largely due to the pioneering efforts of Clemente Santi and his grandson Ferruccio Biondi-Santi. Known as the “wine of kings,” Brunello was the first Italian wine to receive DOCG status, cementing its place as one of Italy’s most iconic and age-worthy reds.

2. Grape Varieties and Composition

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:

Primarily made from Prugnolo Gentile, a local clone of Sangiovese, with smaller percentages of other permitted varieties such as Canaiolo and Mammolo.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Crafted exclusively from 100% Sangiovese Grosso, or “Brunello,” a unique clone of Sangiovese known for its depth, complexity, and aging potential.

3. Body and Alcohol Content

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:

Medium to full-bodied with alcohol levels typically around 13% to 13.5%. It is often softer and more approachable than Brunello, with rounder tannins and a slightly fresher profile.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Full-bodied and firmly structured, with alcohol levels generally between 13.5% and 14.5%. Its longer aging requirements produce a wine that is more robust and complex, with firmer tannins and a longer finish.

4. Flavor Profile

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:

Bright and fruit-driven, with flavors of red cherry, plum, and raspberry complemented by floral notes, hints of spice, and a touch of earthiness. It is known for its balance of freshness and elegance.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Layered and intense, with dark cherry, blackberry, and cranberry notes, along with earthy undertones, tobacco, leather, and hints of dried herbs. Brunello often develops complex tertiary notes like truffle, forest floor, and spice as it ages.

5. Aging Potential

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:

Typically aged 2-3 years before release, it can improve for 5-10 years, though many are enjoyed sooner due to their softer structure.
Brunello di Montalcino:

With at least five years of aging before release, Brunello is built to last. The best examples can evolve beautifully over 15-20 years or more, developing extraordinary complexity.

6. Food Pairing

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:

Its medium body and bright acidity make it an excellent companion for pasta with tomato-based sauces, roasted chicken, grilled sausages, and medium-aged cheeses.
Brunello di Montalcino:

With its richer structure and more intense flavor profile, Brunello pairs beautifully with bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised short ribs, wild boar ragù, or aged Pecorino cheese.

7. Cultural Impact

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:

A classic example of Tuscany’s winemaking tradition, Vino Nobile is deeply intertwined with the heritage of Montepulciano and remains a beloved wine for its accessibility, elegance, and historical importance.
Brunello di Montalcino:

A symbol of Italian luxury and refinement, Brunello is celebrated as one of the world’s great red wines. Its prestige and collectability have made it a benchmark for quality, tradition, and longevity.

8. ConclusionB

Both Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino are superb expressions of Sangiovese, but they cater to different palates and occasions. Vino Nobile offers an approachable, fresh, and elegant experience that reflects the charm of Montepulciano. Brunello, on the other hand, delivers a deeper, more complex, and age-worthy profile that showcases the power and sophistication of Montalcino. Each wine holds its own unique place in the world of Tuscan winemaking, offering wine enthusiasts a chance to explore two distinct sides of Tuscany’s noble heritage.