Europe in Every Glass and Drop: Savor Quality from Europe Takes the U.S. Spotlight

Following a successful launch earlier this year, the Savor Quality from Europe campaign continues its U.S. journey, spotlighting the Consorzio del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and APOT – Associazione Produttori Olivicoli Toscani (Tuscan Olive Oil Producers Association). Funded by the European Union, this three-year initiative promotes Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and Tuscan Extra Virgin Olive Oil (PDO & PGI), aiming to increase awareness and appreciation among U.S. consumers, trade professionals, and media, showcasing Tuscany's authentic, sustainable, and centuries-old craftsmanship as a testament to European quality.

Consorzio del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – A Legacy of Excellence and Sustainability

Founded in 1965, the Consorzio del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano brings together nearly 270 producers who safeguard and promote three prestigious wines: DOCG Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, DOC Rosso di Montepulciano, and DOC Vin Santo di Montepulciano.

As the first Italian wine to receive the coveted DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) status, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano stands as a symbol of Tuscan excellence. Crafted with a minimum of 70% Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile) and up to 30% of other authorized Tuscan grape varieties, it must age for at least two years—or three years for the Riserva—revealing depth, balance, and refined elegance. The region also produces Rosso di Montepulciano DOC, an approachable red made from at least 70% Sangiovese, prized for its freshness, versatility, and vibrant character. Completing the trio is Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC, a traditional sweet wine crafted with a minimum of 70% Malvasia Bianca, Grechetto Bianco, or Trebbiano Toscano, either individually or blended, with the Riserva version offering greater intensity and complexity. The rare Vin Santo di Montepulciano Occhio di Pernice, made with at least 50% Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile), stands out for its amber-to-topaz color, rich aromas, and refined sweetness, embodying the artistry and enduring heritage of Montepulciano's winemaking tradition.

The Consorzio's headquarters are housed within Montepulciano's historic Fortress, symbolizing the union between heritage and innovation. Over the years, the organization has been a pioneer in sustainability—from early vineyard zoning studies to its groundbreaking Carbon Footprint Project, which became a national model for environmental responsibility.

In 2022, the Consorzio achieved a major milestone as the first Italian denomination to earn Equalitas sustainability certification, a rigorous standard recognizing social, environmental, and economic sustainability across the entire production chain.

Today, the Consorzio continues to innovate with the introduction of the "Pieve" classification—a terroir-focused designation that identifies 12 historical zones tied to ancient parishes. This initiative celebrates Montepulciano's rich past while offering a new, terroir-driven lens for the future of Tuscan wine.

APOT – Protecting and Promoting Tuscany's Olive Oil Heritage

Complementing Montepulciano's noble wines, APOT – Associazione Produttori Olivicoli Toscani (Tuscan Olive Oil Producers Association) unites and represents producers of PDO and PGI extra virgin olive oils from across the region, including IGP Toscano, DOP Terre di Siena, DOP Lucca, DOP Seggiano, and Chianti Classico DOP.

APOT's mission is to preserve the authenticity, quality, and sustainability of Tuscan olive oil—a cornerstone of the region's culture and cuisine. The association supports producers through technical training, innovation, and sustainable farming practices, while promoting these exceptional oils in Italy and abroad, ensuring that Tuscan olive growing continues to thrive for generations to come.

Each designation tells the story of its unique territory:

• IGP Toscano extra virgin olive oil showcases Tuscany's landscapes and traditions. Greenish-yellow in color, it has a fruity aroma of almond, artichoke, ripe fruit, and green leaf, with a bold, expressive palate.
• DOP Terre di Siena extra virgin olive oil comes from Siena and is a blend of Frantoio, Correggiolo, Leccino, and Moraiolo olives. It offers a fresh, fruity aroma with lively bitter and spicy notes, a smooth texture, and a golden-green color that deepens with time.
• DOP Lucca extra virgin olive oil is made mainly from Frantoio and Leccino olives. Golden-yellow to green, it has a light, fresh olive aroma and a delicate, balanced palate with gentle bitterness and piquancy.
• DOP Seggiano extra virgin olive oil highlights Olivastra Seggianese olives. Vibrant green with golden tones, it presents a fresh, fruity aroma with herbaceous hints, a crisp palate, and subtle bitter and spicy notes.
• Chianti Classico DOP extra virgin olive oil blends Frantoio, Correggiolo, Moraiolo, and Leccino olives. Deep green with golden highlights, it shows a fruity aroma and a crisp, balanced palate with artichoke and almond notes, complemented by mild bitterness and spice.

By combining Vino Nobile di Montepulciano with Tuscan Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Savor Quality from Europe showcases the flavors of Europe—in every glass and every drop. Journalists interested in covering the campaign or attending upcoming events are welcome to get in touch.