Region and Vineyards
The Vigna Asinone is located in the commune of Montepulciano, perched at an elevation of 380-400 meters. This well-ventilated site has nutrient-poor clay and silt soils with embedded fossils, which restrict vine vigor and contribute to concentrated flavors in the fruit. The Asinone vineyard has been cultivated and developed over the years through continuous experimentation, positioning it as Poliziano’s premier plot due to its consistent quality potential.
Using a mix of Guyot and spur-pruned cordon training systems, the vines benefit from sustainable farming practices and range in age from 3 to 53 years. With a modest yield of 3,000 kg per hectare, the vineyard produces fruit that is intense and flavorful, essential for crafting a Vino Nobile with depth and complexity.
Winemaking
The Vigna Asinone 2018 is composed of 95% Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese) and 5% Canaiolo and Merlot, fermented with yeast cultures selected from the vineyard. Fermentation occurs in 6,000- to 8,000-liter French oak vats, followed by 20 months of aging in 500- and 600-liter French oak tonneaux, with 20% of the oak being new and 80% being second-use barrels. This aging process imparts subtle oak influence, enhancing the wine’s structure without overshadowing its fruit character.
Following barrel aging, the wine spends at least 8 months in the bottle to refine its flavors and integrate its components fully. The final wine has an alcohol level of 14.5%, with balanced acidity and minimal residual sugar, ensuring a dry, elegant finish with excellent cellaring potential.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep ruby red with garnet highlights.
- Aroma: Aromas of black cherry, red currants, and plum, complemented by hints of leather, tobacco, and a touch of vanilla from oak aging.
- Palate: Full-bodied and structured, with ripe fruit flavors balanced by fine tannins and a mineral-driven finish. The wine’s complexity unfolds in layers, with notes of spice, earth, and a lingering finish.
Did You Know?
The Vigna Asinone vineyard was identified through years of experimentation as the finest site at Poliziano, where the Prugnolo Gentile clone reaches its highest expression. This blend, with its high Sangiovese content, honors the tradition of Vino Nobile, which requires only 70% Sangiovese but here is elevated to 95% to showcase the vineyard’s potential.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: The wine’s structure pairs perfectly with the richness of Tuscan steak.
- Pappardelle with wild boar ragu: Enhances the wine’s earthy, savory notes and tannic backbone.
- Aged Pecorino Toscano: Complements the wine’s robust tannins and brings out its fruity and spicy nuances.
- Porcini mushroom risotto: Pairs well with the wine’s complexity and earthy undertones.
