Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela

Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela: A Deep Dive into a Classic Italian Montepulciano

The Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela is a quintessential expression of the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOCG, a highly regarded wine region in central Italy. Crafted from 100% Montepulciano grapes, this wine delivers a captivating journey for the senses. This in-depth tasting note explores the characteristics of the Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela, offering suggestions for serving temperature and exploring perfect food pairings to elevate your dining experience.

Visual:

The Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela pours a deep ruby red colour, showcasing garnet hues at the rim. The wine exhibits good clarity with medium viscosity, leaving a slight sheen on the glass as it swirls.

Aromatic Profile:

On the nose, the Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela unfolds with a complex and inviting bouquet. Ripe black fruit notes of plum, blackberry, and black cherry take centre stage, complemented by hints of spice like black pepper and clove. Subtle floral notes of violets and a touch of earthiness add further intrigue to the aroma. As the wine opens up, additional hints of cocoa and leather may emerge, hinting at the wine's maturation.

Palate:

The first sip of the Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela reveals a medium-bodied wine with a well-balanced structure. The tannins are present but smooth, offering a pleasant grip on the palate without being astringent. The fruit flavours echo the aromas, with a juicy core of black plum and blackberry. Spice notes from the bouquet translate onto the palate, adding complexity without overpowering the fruit. The wine exhibits good acidity, which cuts through the richness of the fruit and provides a refreshing lift on the finish.

Tasting Evolution:

As you continue to savour the Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela, the flavours continue to develop and reveal new layers. The fruit becomes more nuanced, with hints of blackcurrant and prune emerging. The earthy notes become more prominent, while the touch of oak adds a subtle vanilla character. The finish is lingering, with the fruit, spice, and acidity leaving a harmonious and lasting impression.

Serving Temperature:

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela at a slightly cool temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. This temperature range preserves the vibrancy of the fruit and acidity, while allowing the complexity of the aromas and flavours to unfurl.

Food Pairing:

The Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela's versatility makes it a fantastic partner for a variety of dishes. Here are some suggested food pairings to create a harmonious culinary experience:

• Tomato-Based Pasta Dishes: The rich tomato flavours in pasta sauces like Bolognese, ragù, or arrabbiata find a perfect match in the acidity and fruitiness of the Montepulciano. The wine cuts through the richness of the sauce, cleansing the palate and enhancing the overall flavour profile.
• Grilled Meats: The bold fruit character and smooth tannins of the Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela complement grilled meats like steaks, lamb chops, or sausages beautifully. The wine stands up to the smoky and savoury notes of grilled dishes, while the acidity helps to cut through any fattiness.
• Hard Cheeses: The robust character of the Montepulciano pairs well with aged hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, or Grana Padano. The cheese's richness is balanced by the wine's tannins and acidity, creating a delightful textural and flavour contrast.
• Mushroom Risotto: Earthy mushroom flavours find a wonderful complement in the Montepulciano's earthy and black pepper notes. The wine's acidity cuts through the creaminess of the risotto, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

Conclusion:

The Botter Montepulciano Santa Emanuela is a delicious and food-friendly wine that showcases the quintessential qualities of a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. With its complex aromas, juicy fruit flavours, and well-balanced structure, this wine offers a delightful drinking experience on its own or as an accompaniment to a variety of dishes. So, uncork a bottle, explore the depths of flavour, and discover why this Montepulciano is a compelling addition to any wine lover's table.