What kind of wine is Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 'Maggiarino' 2021 - La Braccesca, Antinori?
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 'Maggiarino' 2021 - La Braccesca, Antinori is the most authentic expression of Tuscan winemaking tradition. From the La Braccesca estate, one of the most prestigious properties of the Antinori group, it is made from Sangiovese grapes (locally called Prugnolo Gentile), grown in the clayey, mineral-rich soils of the Montepulciano hills. This is a red wine of great balance, capable of combining elegance and structure, softness and depth, with a personality that tells the story of the territory from the very first sip.
Vintage Details
The 2021 vintage is considered among the most harmonious and consistent for the appellation. Characterized by balanced climatic conditions, with warm, windy days and cool nights, it allowed for complete and balanced grape ripening. The harvest, which took place at the end of September, produced healthy, concentrated bunches with ripe tannins and intense aromas of red fruits.
Winemaking and Aging
After controlled fermentation in stainless steel, the must underwent a maceration period of approximately 15 days, useful for extracting color, aromas, and tannins in a balanced way. Subsequently, the wine was left to mature in barriques and oak barrels for over a year, before further aging in the bottle which rounded out its structure and amplified its complexity. The result is a wine capable of evolving gracefully, improving over time.
Tasting Notes
Color
Visually, it presents a deep and brilliant ruby red color, with slight garnet reflections that anticipate its structure and aging potential.
Nose
The aroma is intense and complex: ripe red fruits like cherry and plum dominate, followed by notes of violet, sweet tobacco, and light spicy nuances of vanilla and cocoa, typical of wood aging.
Palate
On the palate, it reveals a full and balanced structure. The tannins are silky yet firm, enveloped by an elegant softness. Its freshness supports the sip and provides a long and harmonious finish, with a return of fruit and sweet spices.
What dishes to pair with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 'Maggiarino' 2021 - La Braccesca, Antinori
This Vino Nobile is the ideal companion for Tuscan cuisine and flavorful dishes. Perfect with:
- Grilled or roasted red meats
- Braised beef and stews
- Game and substantial roasts
- Aged hard cheeses
Its versatility also makes it suitable for structured pasta dishes, such as pappardelle with wild boar ragu or traditional lasagna.
Storage and Aging
Knowing how to store Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 'Maggiarino' 2021 - La Braccesca, Antinori is essential to maintain its qualities. It should be stored in a cool place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C, away from light and temperature fluctuations. The ideal humidity is between 70 and 80%, and the bottles should be kept horizontally to keep the cork consistently moist.
This is a wine with excellent aging potential: it can evolve in the bottle for 8-10 years, developing even more complex and refined aromas over time. A perfect choice for those who love to discover how a great Tuscan red can grow and mature over the years.
Antinori
The History of Antinori Winery The Antinori winery is a great example of tradition and innovation in the world of wine. Founded over six centuries ago, the Antinori family has successfully combined the legacy of a long winemaking tradition with a continuous pursuit of innovation. This balance bet...