Montepulciano - Italy

Montepulciano, a town in Italy's Tuscany region, is renowned for its excellent Vino Nobile, which is famous worldwide. The "Vino Nobile di Montepulciano" owes its name to the sommelier of Pope Paul III. He described the wine as "highly perfect"—a wine fit to be consumed by nobles. Consequently, "Nobile" was added to the name centuries ago as a tribute to the status the wine enjoyed among the nobility.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano D.O.C.G. is primarily made from Sangiovese, blended with other permitted varieties, and must be aged for at least two years before release. This wine should not be confused with the Montepulciano grape or wines made from it in other parts of Italy (such as Abruzzo).

Due to the local climate, Sangiovese wines from this part of Tuscany are often more intense and full-bodied than those from Chianti. There is an ongoing rivalry between Brunello di Montalcino and the wines of Montepulciano over which is superior. Personally, I believe it is simply a matter of taste.

A visit to the old town is certainly worth it. You can enjoy delicious food, drink great wine, and there are plenty of accommodations for an overnight stay. Because it is a medieval town, there are charming restaurants and bars, but don't forget the underground cellars. You can walk into a wine shop and find yourself in an underground city filled with stone staircases, hidden crypts, and, of course, wooden wine barrels of various sizes.

Top Tip: Restaurant La Briciola. Great food, excellent wine, and all at an affordable price.