Montepulciano Wine: Grape vs Region Explained

The term "Montepulciano" can cause confusion in the world of Italian wine. It refers to both the Montepulciano grape variety and the Montepulciano wine region in Tuscany, but they are two distinct elements. Understanding the difference between the Montepulciano grape and Montepulciano wine region is essential for exploring Italy’s diverse winemaking heritage. Let’s explore the key differences between these two and how they impact the wines they produce.

The Montepulciano Grape

The Montepulciano grape is a red wine variety that thrives in central and southern Italy, particularly in Abruzzo and Marche. This grape is known for producing bold, fruit-forward wines with rich flavors of blackberries, plums, and cherries, balanced by vibrant acidity and soft tannins. The Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC is the flagship wine made from this grape, offering a range from approachable everyday reds to more complex, age-worthy wines. In Marche, the grape is also used in blends, particularly in Rosso Conero, where it is often combined with Sangiovese to add acidity and complexity.

Montepulciano Wine Region in Tuscany

The Montepulciano wine region is located in southeastern Tuscany and is known for producing prestigious wines primarily from Sangiovese, particularly the local clone called Prugnolo Gentile. The region’s most famous wine is Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a DOCG wine made with at least 70% Sangiovese. Vino Nobile is known for its elegant structure, complex aromas of red berries, herbs, and earthy notes, and its aging potential. Another notable wine from this region is Rosso di Montepulciano, which is made from the same grape but with a shorter aging process, resulting in a lighter, fruitier style perfect for everyday drinking.

Key Differences Between the Montepulciano Grape and Wine Region

• Geography: The Montepulciano grape is grown in central and southern Italy, particularly in Abruzzo and Marche, while the Montepulciano wine region is in Tuscany.

• Grape Variety: The Montepulciano grape is known for bold, fruit-forward wines with soft tannins, while the wines from the Montepulciano region are predominantly made from Sangiovese and offer more structure and elegance.

• Famous Wines: Wines made from the Montepulciano grape include Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Rosso Conero, while the Montepulciano wine region is famous for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano.

Why the Confusion?

The main source of confusion is, of course, the shared name. Despite sharing the same name, the Montepulciano grape and the Montepulciano wine region are entirely separate. One is a grape used primarily in central and southern Italy, while the other refers to a wine-producing region in Tuscany, where Sangiovese is the star. Understanding the differences between these two can help wine lovers navigate Italy’s diverse wine landscape and enjoy each for what it brings to the table.

In the world of Italian wines, Montepulciano can refer to both a grape variety and a wine region, but they couldn’t be more different. The Montepulciano grape produces bold, fruit-forward wines from central and southern Italy, while the Montepulciano wine region in Tuscany is known for producing elegant, age-worthy wines made predominantly from Sangiovese. Despite the confusion, both offer unique expressions of Italy’s rich winemaking heritage, and each deserves a place in the wine lover's collection.

Whether you prefer the approachable richness of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo or the structured complexity of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, both versions of Montepulciano offer a glimpse into Italy’s diverse terroirs and winemaking traditions.