In this article we’ll review two Italian wines from classic grape varieties, Pinot Grigio and Montepulciano. They are both modestly priced, and over deliver from a value perspective. Both wines are also imported by Mack & Schühle, which imports wines into the US from around the world. Let’s see what we have here. First the Pinot Grigio.
Wine: 2019 Barone Montalto Pinot Grigio
Winery Location: From the Terre Siciliane IGT, which covers all of Sicily.
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: July 2020
Tasting Notes: this is a very light straw color, with a nose of peach and citrus. Some herbal notes are also present, with sage coming through. On the palate it is clean and bright, with good acid and balance. Stays clean throughout.
Price Point – $12
Would We Buy It? – we would. This is a very pleasing wine, at a great price.
And now the red:
Wine: 2019 Art of Earth Montepulciano d’Abuzzo
Winery Location: Abruzzo Region, Italy
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: July 2020
Tasting Notes: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine should not be confused with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The first wine is made with the Montepulciano grape, in the Abruzzo region along Italy’s Adriatic coast. The second wine is made in Tuscany, around the town of Montepulciano, primarily with the Sangiovese grape and tends to be bigger and more robust. The wine we review here, made from the Montepulciano grape, is a garnet red, with a nose of red fruit, spice and a touch of savory. Rasberry and tart cherry are prominent. It is medium+ in body, with some tannin and a rustic style that we really love. Good acid and balance make this an excellent food wine. We enjoyed just sipping a glass on a Sunday afternoon, with cheese and crackers.
Price Point – Also $12
Would We Buy It? – We would buy this, and will be looking to find some near us. This is a great, traditional Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and a great value wine. Perfect pizza wine as well.
These are both very good values for the money.
A votre santé!
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