Avignonesi is a Tuscany-based wine model that we coated extensively within the mid-2010s, however haven’t seen a lot of in almost a decade. Shock, right here’s a have a look at two new releases from the model, together with a stunning 2014 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which is in present launch. (We reviewed the 2013 classic in 2016.)
What does an entire lot of extra age do to this basic sangiovese? Let’s discover out… and style a Tuscan merlot whereas we’re at it.
2014 Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG – This 100% sangiovese wine has some age on it, a well-oxidized high quality that options notes of previous wine, blood orange peel, and a gently bitter pinch of powdered gentian. The enduring cherry core beneath is current however takes its time to unfold, finally meandering its strategy to a tart physique with an undercurrent of chocolate sauce. Mildly savory with a layer of seared beef on the end, concluding on a grind of pepper. This can be only a contact previous its prime, however nonetheless within the dialog. A- / $37
2020 Avignonesi Desiderio Merlot Toscana IGT – A 100% Tuscan merlot — decidedly uncommon. The wine itself is sadly not all that fascinating, a reasonably earthy expression of merlot that leans right into a dry cherry be aware, ringed with raspberry and tea leaf. The vigorous florals of a basic merlot are missing, although with meals this makes for a extra fascinating expertise, the late-game character providing a flippantly bitter high quality, heavy on notes of rhubarb. A reasonably doughy physique is what weighs issues down, giving the wine a considerably gummy texture. B / $45
2014 Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG
$37
