There have been times when I've tasted a wine without seeing the label, and the impact of the flavors hitting my tongue made me instinctively reach out to grab the bottle and see what was so delicious, (or sometimes so unpalatable.) It happened recently (the delicious experience) when tasting the 2006 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano from Valdipiatta. This Italian gem, composed mostly of Prugnolo Gentile (the local name for Sangiovese), has power and depth, with all the necessary components to make it stand out as exceptional—rich mouthfeel, intense fruit, complex elements of terroir, firm structure and sweet oak. The Valdipiatta estate comprises 100 acres of land, at an average of 1,200 feet above sea level, in the very heart of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano appellation in Tuscany. Their wines are made exclusively from estate-grown fruit. The grapes from 7 different crus, are harvested and vinified separately, then blended together. Put this wine up against any Brunello at $15-$50 more in price and the Valdipiatta will stand its ground. Fantastic now, but this is a good one to tuck away for a few years. Have it with rich pastas, grilled red meats, game, roasts and aged cheeses. $25.99.To purchase this wine please call: 415 346-9870 or visit PlumpJack Wines located at: 3201 Fillmore Street (at Greenwich).
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