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| ~ Approaching Montepulciano ~ |
If you begin a conversation with someone about the best Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, chances are you’ll hear them mention the names Avignonesi and Poliziano. And for good reason. They are stalwart producers that both make wonderful Vino Nobile and in Avignonesi’s case – perhaps the best Vin Santo in all of Italy.
But what you often don’t hear is Boscarelli and I can’t figure out why. I’m reminded of that ridiculous quote from NFL Coach Buddy Ryan in speaking about future Hall of Fame receiver Cris Carter: “he’s not that good. All he does is catch touchdowns.” Well, all Boscarelli does is consistently earn Tre Biccheri. Every year I attend an event – there they are. Pouring their 2007 Riserva or their Vigna Nocio… quietly going about their craft one Tre Bicchieri at a time.
Today’s review is on Boscarelli’s recent release – a traditionally crafted wine from their small 34 acre estate. The 2011 Boscarelli Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is almost entirely Prugnolo Gentile – the local name for the clone of Sangiovese used in Vino Nobile – but there is some colorino and canaiolo in the blend.
It’s a rustic ruby in the glass, a color not deeply affected by the large botte aging employed at the estate. The aromas lift from the glass. Flowers, chestnut, dried herbs and cherry are noticeable and attractive. On the palate, the flavors mirror the nose with good persistence and the peppery spice interjects itself on the finish. I like this wine a lot. It’s honest, stripped down, but made with modern attention. And the value is there at under $25. 91 points.
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| ~ Boscarelli’s Noble Wine from the Corradi Family ~ |
Salute!
John, there is only one type of wine that rivals Brunello for my tastes and that is Vino Nobile. Avignonesi makes a very good everyday Nobile ( I enjoy keeping 375MLs in my cellar for nights when Donna is traveling and I am eating alone) and Polizano makes a dependable wine but when it comes to Boscarelli I have always felt they are above the rest.
I have 2005 and 2006 Boscarelli Riservas in my cellar. We had the 2005 a couple of weeks back and it was great. We recently thoroughly enjoyed the 2010 Boscarelli Nocio while in Montelpulciano, I can see this being added to the cellar in the future, what a wonderful wine. I have a 1988 Boscarelli Vin Santo that I am waiting for the right time to open and to enjoy for a few months.
A couple of years ago Donna and I had a private tour of Boscarelli and it was wonderful. Very educational and an opportunity to taste some wonderful wines. They wanted you to try a good cross section of their wines, including older vintages.
In summary, a very good product from the VN to the VN Riserva to the VN Nocio.
John: I think one of your best reviews: Such a comfortable read and to the point. I know I'd buy this on the spot! I almost never see 375 MLs!
Guys, I would love to find something like this in 375ml format. Typically don't see many 1/2 bottles at all. Joe, to my tastes, I've liked their Riserva better than the Nocio. I've never seen either at retail, but if I did, I'd have to think long and hard. I remember the Riserva being quoted to me at about $60 retail and the Nocio more than that. Is that what you see them for?
Dennis, always a pleasure hearing from you my friend. Hope you're all dug out!
John, I brought my Boscarelli's back with me over a few occasions. I notes show I spent about $30 EURO at the vineyard and about $35 EURO in a shop I go to in Montapulciano for the Riservas. McArthurs Beverages in DC (https://bassins.com/) has the 09 Riserva for $57 and the 09 Nocio for $82. They ship but I have never used them. These wines are hard to come by here in the states. With the change in the EURO it may be best to by direct from the vineyard.
Thanks Joe. I've visited and bought from MacArthurs many times. If you're ever inclined, you can buy there without hesitation. Nocio at $82 is a bit crazy. I am intrigued by the Riserva for sure. Thanks for following up.