95 2000 Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Asinone 6/23/13 ($40)
14% alc
Color: Deep garnet. (3.5) Bouquet: Dusty Tuscan earth, mineral/acidity and rich black cherry. (3.5) Body: Light heavyweight with elegance and intensity to the impressive fruit, acidity and smooth tannins. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet with rich, expressive fruit. (3.5) Finish: Long and dusty with persistent intensity. (3.5)
Overall: What started life as a tannic beast with lots of potential has turned into an elegant, yet intense, fully developed Sangiovese. Has loads of dusty, mineral-infused Tuscan terroir combined with rich black cherry fruit. Classic Sangiovese, similar to a top-notch $100+ Brunello Riserva. Still has plenty of supporting structure, but all those tough, young tannins have become smooth. Some criticize Poliziano for using a bit too much oak, and on many of their wines I'd agree, but this wine from this vintage has just the right amount for its structure and fruit. Bravo!!! This is also a great overachiever for the vintage, which wasn't particularly good in Tuscany on average. Yes, great bargains can be found in off vintages, got this on a closeout for $20. A joy to drink, probably at its best now, and should continue to hold for several more years. (17.5)
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