Azienda Agricola Poliziano – Power, Precision and the Nobility of Prugnolo Gentile
The modern, terroir-driven benchmark of Montepulciano
Founded in 1961 by Dino Carletti, Azienda Agricola Poliziano is today one of the most emblematic estates of Montepulciano and a leading reference for Vino Nobile. Set on the hills surrounding the historic town, the estate takes its name from the humanist poet Angelo Poliziano and expresses a Tuscan style that blends elegance, depth and contemporary precision.
For several decades, Federico Carletti has led the estate with a rigorous single-vineyard approach, a deep understanding of terroir and an uncompromising qualitative vision. His son Francesco now contributes to this continuity, ensuring the future of one of the most respected and sought-after producers in the region.
Terroir & Vineyard – The Great Sites of Montepulciano
Poliziano cultivates around 170 hectares, the majority planted with Prugnolo Gentile, the historic local clone of Sangiovese. The vineyards rest on a mosaic of clay-limestone, Pliocene sands, compacted loam and rolled pebbles, offering natural structure, freshness and tension.
Among the key terroirs:
- Asinone – one of Montepulciano’s most iconic crus (14 ha). 300–350 m. Clay-limestone. The signature of the celebrated “Asinone” Vino Nobile.
- Le Caggiole – cooler site, stony soils. Produces precise, floral, elegant wines.
- Gracciano – historic zone of Vino Nobile. Finesse, balance and natural drinkability.
- Valiano – warmer, later-ripening area suited to Merlot, yielding velvety, concentrated wines.
This geological and micro-climatic diversity is amplified by meticulous parcel selection, defining the wide aromatic and structural range of Poliziano wines.
Grape Varieties & Farming Philosophy
Prugnolo Gentile is the backbone of the estate, shaping all major wines. It is complemented by:
- Merlot – structure, velvet, aromatic richness,
- Cabernet Sauvignon – depth, verticality, dark complexity,
- Colorino – colour, spice and vibrancy.
Sustainable vineyard practices include manual harvesting, strict yield control, thoughtful soil management and systematic parcel sorting — all aiming for purity, balance and transparent expression of place.
Vinification & Ageing – Tuscan Tradition with Modern Precision
Winemaking follows a philosophy of technical precision and respect for each grape variety:
- temperature-controlled stainless-steel fermentations,
- gentle extractions,
- carefully managed macerations,
- ageing tailored to each cuvée: barriques, tonneaux, 500 L casks or large wooden vessels.
The goal is to combine Tuscan structure with aromatic finesse and silky texture — without heaviness or excessive oak.
Wine Style
Poliziano wines are defined by:
- controlled Tuscan depth,
- polished, always-ripe tannins,
- remarkable aromatic purity,
- a balance of power and freshness,
- excellent ageing capacity, especially for Asinone and Le Caggiole.
A modern interpretation in form, yet fully faithful to the classic spirit of Vino Nobile.
Key Cuvées
| Cuvée | Description |
|---|---|
| Vino Nobile di Montepulciano “Asinone” | The estate’s flagship wine. Concentration, energy and mineral depth with beautifully integrated tannins. One of Tuscany’s great modern reds. |
| Vino Nobile “Le Caggiole” | More floral and aerial, with linear structure and remarkable aromatic precision. |
| Rosso di Montepulciano | Immediate freshness, crisp red fruit, gourmet accessibility. |
Conclusion
Poliziano stands today as one of the most consistent, terroir-driven and technically precise producers in Montepulciano. Combining tradition and innovation, the estate cultivates the purity, depth and longevity of Prugnolo Gentile with rare mastery. A benchmark name for anyone exploring the finest wines of Vino Nobile.