La Braccesca Vino Nobile Montepulciano

La Braccesca Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – classic Tuscan power with elegance

The La Braccesca Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a characterful red wine from southern Tuscany, produced at the eponymous Marchesi Antinori estate. This wine combines the structure of Sangiovese with extra roundness and depth, and perfectly reflects the style of a classic Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG.

The blend consists of approximately 90% Prugnolo Gentile (the local clone of Sangiovese) and 10% Merlot. Prugnolo Gentile provides fresh acidity, red fruit, and firm structure, while Merlot contributes softness and a fuller mouthfeel.

Tasting note La Braccesca Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – ripe fruit, balance and structure

The wine is deep ruby ​​red in color. The aroma is intense and elegant, with notes of cherry, ripe red berries, and plum, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla, light spices, and a hint of cocoa.

On the palate, the wine is full and juicy, with firm yet ripe tannins and a beautiful balance between fruit, freshness, and oak influence. The structure is classic Tuscan style: powerful but not heavy, with a long, harmonious finish where fruit and spiciness come together.

This wine is excellent to drink in its youth, but can also mature for a few more years.

Vinification and aging La Braccesca Vino Nobile

After manual harvesting, the grapes are carefully selected and gently pressed. Fermentation takes place at 27–30°C and lasts an average of 15 to 20 days, with regular pumping over for optimal extraction of color and tannins.

The wine subsequently ages for approximately 12 months in large oak barrels, while a small portion ages in small barriques for added complexity. After blending, another 12 months of bottle aging follows before the wine is released to the market. This combination of wood and aging gives the wine structure, round tannins, and good integration of aromas.

The La Braccesca estate – terroir between Tuscany and Umbria

Antinori acquired the La Braccesca estate in 1990. It is located a few kilometers outside Montepulciano, near the border with Umbria and Lake Trasimeno. The total estate covers approximately 238 hectares, of which 175 hectares are planted with vines.

The vineyards are situated on rolling hills with soils of clay mixed with sand, ideal for Sangiovese varieties. During the day, sun and warmth ensure ripening, while cooler nights contribute to the preservation of acidity and aromatic freshness. This results in grapes with both ripe fruit and good tension.

Food and wine pairings

La Braccesca Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is an excellent accompaniment to hearty dishes, such as:

• grilled steak with red wine sauce
• game dishes such as venison or pheasant
• stews
• lamb dishes with herbs
• aged cheeses

Thanks to the combination of fruit, structure, and acidity, the wine holds its own well alongside rich flavors.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – Tuscan classic

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is one of the oldest recognized quality wines in Italy and holds the highest appellation status: DOCG. The style is typically slightly fuller and softer than Chianti Classico, but with more structure than Rosso di Montepulciano. As a result, these wines are both gastronomic and suitable for aging.

Features of La Braccesca Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (Antinori) at a glance:

• made from Prugnolo Gentile and Merlot
• originating from Antinori's own domain
• classically aged in large barrels and partly in barriques
• full, fruity and well-structured
• excellent with meat and game
• suitable for drinking now and for aging
• A reliable choice for lovers of classic Tuscan red wine with depth and elegance.