Ojas Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a well-respected DOCG red wine from southern Tuscany, Italy. Nestled between Montalcino and Umbria, this region boasts stunning hilltop scenery and a rich history dating back to the Renaissance. Its proximity to Florence attracted artists and poets, earning it the nickname "the pearl of the Renaissance." The name Vino Nobile itself translates to "noble wine," a playful title bestowed by the royal court, hinting at its esteemed status.
While the name might cause confusion, Vino Nobile is made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, known locally as Prugnolo Gentile. This grape is distinct from the Montepulciano grape used in wines from Abruzzo, a different region in central Italy.
Key characteristics of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano:
DOCG status: This guarantees the wine's quality and origin.
Sangiovese grapes: The backbone of the wine, known as Prugnolo Gentile in this region.
Unique soil: A blend of clay (contributing to a fuller body) and sand (enhancing aromatics).
Grape composition: Minimum 70% Sangiovese, with room for indigenous grapes (Canaiolo Nero, Mammolo) and international varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Franc, Merlot) up to 30%.
Aging requirements: Minimum two years from harvest, including 12-24 months in wood (depending on bottle aging).
Riserva: Requires three years of aging, with no additional oak requirement.
Rosso di Montepulciano DOC: A separate category for lighter, more affordable wines meant for earlier enjoyment.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG Riserva "Ojas" 2015
Follow your passion and it’ll all work out just fine. That’s what Sudha and Puru Manvi did. They left familiar behind and faced the challenging world of wine head on. Certified organic, solar powered, spontaneous fermentation are just a few elements that they do. The wine is lovingly named after the Sanskrit word for “life force”
Made from 100% Sangiovese with a small production of 4000 bottles/year. Grown in a mix of clay and sand at an elevation of 350-430 m a.s.l. The whole bunches are pressed and destemmed, followed by skin contact for a minimum of 6 week. Ambient yeast allows for spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel tanks followed by ageing in French barriques for a minimum of 30 months.
Pours into the glass a brilliant garnet rust colour with a bright core. Say buongiorno to the complex fruity spicy duo, particularly prune and dried fig, sour cherry, raspberry, clay pot and dried flowers with a delicate touch of vanilla, tobacco leaf, dried marjoram and balsamic.
First sip reveals Sangiovese’s calling card - its signature vibrant acidity The first sip is a continuum of a full-bodied wine with firm tannins, characteristic of Sangiovese.
The flavors that mirror the aromas of red fruit, leather, balsamic reduction, tobacco, into candied blood orange and dried marjoram. The lingering elegant finish ends on black pepper, sweet clove, mocha and sun-dried tomatoes.
Pair with eggplant parmigiana, a hearty lamb rosemary stew, Pumpkin sausage sage pasta, Pepper crusted grilled flank steak
