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2018 Montepeloso ‘Eneo’

Published

2018 Montepeloso ‘Eneo’

On Sale: $45.94  (was: $54.94)*

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Sitting along the Tuscan coast in Maremma, Suvereto is one of Tuscany’s up and coming regions, putting out fabulously exuberant reds that are pushing away from the Bordeaux-inspired style of many Super Tuscans. Montepeloso has been one of the main pillars of the region, producing “deep, resonant wines that capture all the magic of Maremma” (Vinous).

A blend of Sangiovese, Montepulciano, and local varieties, ‘Eneo’ is pure Suvereto through and through, with explosively rich red berry fruit and spice, all in a surprisingly nuanced and fresh profile. Per Vinous, “the 2018s from Montepeloso are off the charts”, and while we know even many regular Italian wine drinkers may not yet be familiar with this region, there is so much going on here in this lovely double-94pt Sangiovese blend that makes it irresistible.

Suvereto sits up in the rolling hillsides of the Tuscan Coast just south of Bolgheri, home to Super Tuscan greats like Sassicaia. The warmer climate and emerging wine culture has led to a very different approach however, with varieties like Montepulciano making an appearance on the gravely hillside terroir. This is one region that doesn’t lack for ripeness, so winemaker Fabrizio Moltard’s challenge is finding elegance, and a number of critics have praised his ability to “reconcile these two seemingly disparate characteristics” (Galloni). Like nearby Tua Rita, Montepeloso has become a major insider hit despite lacking the jet setting cachet of other producers nearby. Their ‘Eneo’ is pure Tuscan class in a bottle!

94 points, Vinous: "...redolent of crushed red berry fruit, licorice, blood orange, star anise and rose petal. Bright and gracious, with terrific purity, the Eneo beautifully captures the understated, nuanced style of the year. It is a bit more red-toned than I recall from barrel. This is so nicely done."

94 points, Wine Advocate: "The Montepeloso 2018 Eneo (a blend of 55% Sangiovese, 25% Montepulciano, 15% Alicante and 5% Malvasia Nera) is another unexpected blend from this very promising estate on the Tuscan Coast...It's a bit harder to dissect the various components in this blend, but that solo voice of Sangiovese does emerge with wild plum, potting earth and blue lilac. There is an extra point of acidity that also reminds me of the mighty Tuscan grape. This well-priced wine is worth seeking out. Drink 2021-2033"

*Offer publication date January 13, 2022. Pricing and availability subject to change.