It’s not every day that you can talk about a Nobile di Montepulciano 1989. And if you then up the game and taste it on one of the largest wine estates in Italy (with a span of over 80 hectares), the concept of wine tasting is raised to a whole new level. The Carpineto di Chianciano-Montepulciano wine estate is an enological pearl immersed among the hills of Siena. Notable wines to mention from this estate are the Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva: 1989, 1995, 2007, 2010, 2011 and 2013.
A visit to Carpineto is like a journey through the history of a wine, all born thanks to the passion and stubbornness of two friends – Antonio Mario Zaccheo and Giancarlo Sacchet. 2013 is already proving itself to be a reserve that expresses its characteristics of grandeur. It is no coincidence that Wine Spectator has included it among the best 100 wines of 2018, placing it at the height of a prestigious eleventh place. It’s quick for any nose to understand its claim to fame – its intense and ripe fruit, from currants to the aromas of the wood, with tertiary leather, coffee and tobacco that stimulate the drink. This wine produces a structured but silky tannic sensation on the palate, a well-balanced freshness which ensures a long life of at least another ten years.
And 2011 has confirmed this trend. The color of this wine is still vibrant with an aroma of ripe red fruit and back-hints of undergrowth. It is full, warm and harmonious in taste, a reserve of great structure. The 2010 offers still present tannins, despite its double-digit age. It is balanced by a pleasant acidity and the alcoholic softness. These are wines notable for their structure and full-bodies, developed both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Then there is the 1995 vintage which is reminiscent of berry jam, whose aromas almost beckon to be eaten with a spoon!
The tertiary aromas are well integrated with the fruit: tobacco, cocoa, coffee, balsamic and ferrous notes that blend in a long, fine, persistent sip, which caress the palate with a freshness that is still alive and present. After 24 years of aging, it is almost incredible to think that such a wine still has life ahead of it. The thirty-year-old vintage (1989) is harmonious and fresh and go well beyond the boundaries of time. This is a wine which is satisfying on the palate and will be for years to come. These are wines that are the result of passion and craft, making them some of the most important wines in all of Italy.
Enrico Nocera
