Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Asinone 2021

Darkly floral and intense, the 2021 Nobile di Montepulciano Asinone smolders up with an array of crushed blackberries and cherries, all complicated by a whiff of ashen stones. Hints of sage add a lovely lift. Cool-toned and sleek, this washes across the palate with an energetic blend of tart wild berries and complementary violet floral tones. Grippy and pleasantly chewy, the 2021 tapers off with edgy tannins and a tinge of residual acidity that keeps the mouth watering for more. I'm loving the lively nature here. Poliziano has been drastically reducing its use of barriques in favor of tonneaux and large casks, and it really shows here.

Fresh and balanced, this red features cherry, raspberry, floral, mineral and tobacco flavors. Offers depth and a supple texture offset by a base of gripping tannins. Elegant overall, with fine length. Best from 2026 through 2042. 2,100 cases made, 200 cases imported.

The nose is floral and earthy, with aromas of rose water, herbs, damp soil and black cherries, but also has the tang of cola and fresh pepper. On the palate, tart blackberries accentuate a continued interplay between black cherry, pepper and herb notes, before a bitter, biting finish. Taut tannins fortify a latent heat.