Montepulciano 2002 - Library Wine
Regular price
$344.00
Sale
A Historic Vintage from Our Wine Vault
The 2002 Montepulciano is a rare treasure, representing the fourth vintage of our iconic Italian Stallion. With over two decades of careful aging, this wine embodies true elegance and depth, delivering a flavour profile that has evolved into something extraordinary. Crafted from low-yielding vines to achieve natural concentration and complexity, this historic vintage is a testament to Hans’ pioneering craftsmanship, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the origins of our Montepulciano legacy.
Vintage 2002+
The 2002 vintage in Marlborough was marked by a cool and relatively wet spring, which led to a small crop. However, the growing season improved with warmer temperatures in late summer, allowing for a slower and more even ripening process. The low yields resulted in excellent concentration and depth. The extended ripening period contributed to balanced acidity and well-structured tannins. Hans' skillful vineyard management and winemaking created a high-quality wine, showing elegance, complexity with great aging potential.
Hans' Winemaking Comments+
Long fermentation to enhance the dark colour and intense flavours. The wine is aged for 24 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. No fining and no filtration.
Tasting Notes+
The 2002 vintage produced a sensational, full-bodied and dark ruby coloured Montepulciano bursting with power, concentration and texture. Gorgeous notes of sweet black- and elderberries with layers of chocolate and caramel. An explosion of flavours, sumptuous with a long finish and because of the beautiful ripe tannins already a delight to drink.
Technical Data +
| Variety | 100% Montepulciano |
| Rootstock |
101.14 / Riparia Gloire |
| Vine Planted |
1996 |
| Soil |
Shallow (<45cm) stony, gravel and sandy soil. Well drained, developed from stony alluvium. Not one row shows the same soil type. |
| Planting Density | 5,500 vines/ha |
| Yield | 2t/ha |
| Alcohol | 14.4% |
| Residual Sugar | <1g/L |
| Ageing Potential | 15+ years |
Food Matching Suggestions+
This powerhouse is well matched to rich, spicy pasta dishes and slow cooked meats.