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| ~ Vineyards on the Montepeloso Estate ~ |
Hailing from the Suvereto area of Tuscany, near Bolgheri, Montepeloso’s next door neighbor is the famous Tua Rita, and they are benefiting from the same excellent terroir that has made Tua Rita world class. Montepeloso was purchased in 1998 by Fabio Chiarelotto who saw the potential for untold greatness at this estate. Chiarelotto has been compared to none other than Montalcino’s Soldera – in that he possesses an obsessive commitment to quality and a lack of concern for what others think of him or his wines.
Last January, I reviewed the excellent 2009 Eneo, so when I came across the newly released “A Quo” I was interested to try it. I was disappointed that it did not live up to the reputation that it’s older brother established.
The 2011 Montepeloso A Quo is what I jokingly refer to as a “vineyard sink” blend. It’s a blend of five different varietals and while that’s not always a bad thing, most of the time I find it results in wines that lack a distinct personality. Such is the case here.
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| ~ Fabio Chiarelotto on his Estate in Suvereto ~ |
This 2011 rosso is a blend of 30% Cabernet, 30% Montepulciano, 20% Sangiovese, 10% Marcellan and 10% Alicante Bouschet. That may be the oddest blend for an Italian wine I’ve ever come across. And it may just be me, but I don’t see any value to including the last three grapes in this wine. They are completely lost.
The wine is a deep violet. Very pretty to look at. The nose is pleasing enough, with hints of dark berry and spices. Not overly complex. On the palate, the wine is well balanced and medium bodied. The fruit flavors are moderate and feature red plums, and hints of peppery spice. Everything is moderate. Nothing stands out. It’s a well made, boring wine. A Quo is Montepeloso’s entry level red. At $20 it’s fairly priced, but there are dozens of wines I’d rather drink at equal or lesser cost. 85 points.
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| ~ 2011 Montepeloso A Quo ~ |
A presto…..
Where's the Quid-Pro-Quo?
Honesty is hard to come by, but that's what make your post so important.
Thanks John for the informative review!
My pleasure my friend. I call 'em as I taste them.