Wines of Cortona, Valdichiana & Arezzo, compared head to head

Tosco The Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva from Folonari, at €22, wins on typicity with its 100% Prugnolo Gentile and its long aging in Slavonian botti, making it a choice for those who want a strong sense of terroir and precise pairings. The DOC Cortona Sangiovese from Baracchi, at €18, stands out for its food versatility (8.1 against 7.8) and barrel vinification that will please lovers of cherry and violet, at a gentler price. If the overall ratings are nearly identical (7.6 against 7.5), choose Folonari for the depth of terroir, Baracchi for the softness-to-price ratio.

Tosco DOC Cortona Sangiovese – Baracchi wins over the Syrah with a rating of 7.5 against 7.2 and high reliability, where the latter is average. Its roots are clearer: a 100% Sangiovese with a typicity of 8.2 and a food versatility of 8.1, against 7.3 and 7.6 for the Syrah, whose international grape and unspecified farming weigh against it. Both are priced at €18, with no real distinction, but the Sangiovese suits a varied and precise meal, while the Syrah, fuller-bodied, is for those who love roasts and rich dishes, without demanding proof of recognition.

Tosco The Toscane Cachée rating of 7.5 for the DOC Cortona Sangiovese by Baracchi edges out the 7.2 for the Antinori Syrah, and the gap widens on typicity (8.2 versus 7.2) thanks to its 100% Tuscan grape and precise terroir, whereas the Syrah remains an international variety. The Baracchi, at €18, offers a detailed winemaking process (25-day maceration, 12 months in barrique) and better versatility at the table (8.1), while the Antinori, at €16, appeals with its slightly gentler price and average reliability, without standing out either. If you're looking for an authentic, well-structured red to pair with pasta or meat, choose Baracchi; if your budget is tight and the Antinori name reassures you, the Syrah remains an honest choice, but without distinction.

Tosco The Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva from Folonari beats the Syrah from Baracchi thanks to its typicity (8.6 against 7.3) and its overall rating (7.6 against 7.2), with an indigenous grape and aging in Slavonian botti that speak to purists; at €22, it suits those who want a strong sense of terroir. The Syrah from Baracchi, at €18, more accessible and fruity, with its 25 days of maceration, appeals to those curious about an international style, but its average reliability and lack of distinction leave a thin gap on value for money (7.2 against 7.3). Choose Folonari for a classic and recognized foundation, Baracchi for a softer and more economical approach.

Tosco The Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva from Folonari, at €22, beats the Toscane Cachée rating (7.6 against 7.2) thanks to its clear typicity, its Prugnolo Gentile grape and its aging in Slavonian botti, a safe choice for anyone seeking a classic and precise red at the table. The Syrah from Baracchi, more expensive (€29), appeals with its intense aromatic profile and long maceration, but its average reliability and lack of distinction make it less obvious for a first discovery. If you want a bet on a characterful Syrah, go for Baracchi; for a reliable and well-typed Nobile, Folonari is the right choice.