The 2007 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano impresses for its rich, weighty personality packed with red fruit. The roundness of the fruit carries through nicely to the finish, showing no hard edges and fabulous balance. Floral notes add brightness and lift on the close. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. These are among the finest wines I can remember tasting from Poliziano, one of Montepulciano's reference-point producers. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

Poliziano consistently delivers smooth and rich expressions that show the best of Montepulciano. Aromas include black berry, cherry, smoked spice, leather and moist tobacco. Pair this wine with stewed veal. ——M.L.(4/1/2011)—— 91