Poliziano

What to look for

• •Deep ruby colour with garnet edges as it opens
• •Aromas of cherry, plum and dried herbs with a hint of earth
• •Firm tannins that feel like fine-grained leather on your tongue

About the producer

Poliziano is one of Montepulciano's most respected estates, known for balancing traditional winemaking with careful attention to vineyard health and ripeness.

About the year

2018 was a warm, dry vintage across Tuscany that produced wines with good concentration and ripe tannins. These wines are drinking well now but will age gracefully for another decade.

Grape characteristics

Sangiovese is Tuscany's signature grape. It gives wines bright acidity and tannins that feel structured and fine, with flavours that lean toward red fruit and herbs rather than ripe sweetness.

About the region

Montepulciano sits at 600 metres in southern Tuscany, where cool nights and warm days create wines with balance and complexity. The clay and limestone soils add depth and a subtle earthiness.

Tasting profile

Expect cherry and plum with undertones of dried herbs, tobacco leaf and a whisper of leather. The wine has presence and grip without heaviness, with flavours that evolve as it breathes.

Serving suggestions

Serve at 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. Decant for 30 minutes to open up the aromas. Use a medium-sized red wine glass that lets the wine breathe.

Also pairs well with

• • Tuscan beef stew
• • Hard aged cheeses
• • Roasted game birds
• • Mushroom risotto
• • Cured meats