Producer Profile: Crociani
Arnaldo Crociani, carrying on the family tradition, spent his lifetime amongst barrels, bottles and flasks, and with dedication and passion he applied his mastery to the winemaking art, respecting his father and grandfather’s wishes. At his death, his children Giorgio and Susanna carried on that legacy, but also with the influence of youth and desire to ensure that the wine carries on to a new generation. Their mission is to ensure that the dynasty of Crociani carries on.
The Crociani Estate is owner of vineyards situated at Le Caggiole, one of the most attractive areas in the heart of the Vino Nobile production area. The vineyards, covering about 10 hectares, are on medium-textured soils well-suited to the growth of the vine and producing superb vintages year on year. The grapes are handpicked and then taken to a cellar close to the vineyard where the wine is made. The wine is aged in the fourteenth-century cellars in the upper part of the old centre of Montepulciano and in the cellar in San Biagio’s area.
The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is one of the oldest wines of Italy. One of the most prestigious wines of Tuscany It was the first Italian wine to be granted DOCG appellation in July 1980.
Susanna Crociani`s 14th century cellars are situated in the heart of Tuscany in the town of Montepulciano. The vineyards, covering about 10 hectares, are on medium-textured soils well-suited to the growth of the vine and giving excellent results. They are planted with Prugnolo Gentile, Canaiolo Nero and with Mammolo and white varieties.
Grape: 90% Sangiovese (locally called Prugnolo Gentile), 10% Canaiolo Nero and Mammolo
Ageing and refining: Aged for 24 months in Slavonian oak and then a further two months in bottle.
Tasting notes: ruby red colour with orange hints. The nose is delicate and intense with a bouquet of pronounced notes of redcurrants and violets. Dry, soft and harmonious, the palate is full of red fruit flavours of redcurrant and red cherries with spicy notes and vanilla from oak ageing. Well-structured with fine grained tannins and a long mouth filling finish.
Crociani Vino Nobile How and When: Roasted red meats, poultry and game, pasta dishes with rich tomato sauces, medium to well-aged cheeses. Serving temperature 16 - 18 C
