Looking for the best way to kill time until Benvenuto Brunello is taking off by the end of February? Tasting my way through the preview of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano the weekend beforehand normally does the trick for me. From the 16th to the 18th of February 2013 , wine trade and journalists are invited to meet the Vino Nobile 2010 and Vino Nobile Riserva 2009 (register here ). Both vintages have been awarded four stars out of five, which will ensure a pleasant weekend. The wines will be presented every day from 2pm to 6pm in Montepulciano's fortress (the location has recently been restored with the support of the town's vintners' association). San Biagio church: Montepulciano's Renaissance jewel Close to Montalcino, Montepulciano has a lot in common with the home of Brunello . The two hill top towns have beautiful historic centers, host prestigious music festivals in summer and are impossible to access in high-heels. M...