MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO

Along with Chianti, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is probably one of Italy’s most well-known wines, widely sold around the world. And rightly so: this is a classic red – well-rounded, full-flavoured and full-bodied. There’s a range going from entry-level to vintage beautiful bottles that you can treat yourself with.

Where is Montepulciano d'Abruzzo produced? Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is produced with Montepulciano grapes grown in the Abruzzo region: not to be confused with the town of Montepulciano in Tuscany, which produces the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – a wine that is in fact produced in Tuscany but in this case from Sangiovese grapes. The wine-growing area of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo as delimited by its DOC classification runs the full length of Abruzzo’s coastline, extending inland for about 20 miles. This setting is perfect for the lengthy and mild growing season required by the Montepulciano grape. Within the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC, the vineyards of the Teramo hills are deemed to produce some of the finest and best Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines, and, as such, they were granted their own DOCG classification: Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Colline Teramane. In the neighbouring region of Le Marche, on the other hand, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines are also produced under the DOC Conero. Examples of both can of course be found among our carefully handpicked selection of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines here at Tannico.

How is Montepulciano d'Abruzzo made? A Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC wine must be made with at least 85% Montepulciano grapes, this percentage rising to 90% for the more stringent Colline Teramane DOCG appellation. The remainder in each case can be completed with Sangiovese grapes, however it’s very common for Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines to be monovarietal. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines must be aged for at least five months before being released, or, in the case of Riserva styles, two years, of which nine months must be spent in wood barrels.

What is Montepulciano d'Abruzzo’s tasting profile? In the glass, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo presents a deep ruby red colour, with purple hues. Aromas of cherry, berries and spices on the nose, whilst on the palate, notes of pepper and spice are characteristic. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo typically has good depth of flavour, soft tannins, and a smooth and pleasant mouthfeel.

What food goes well with Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine? This easy-drinking Italian red will pair well with a huge range of dishes, although – as with any wine – its closest match is the cuisine of the area in which it’s produced. Earthy regional fare such as roast lamb or even goat, strong cheese, mushroom-based dishes and stews will be a perfect match on the table. Younger bottles can also pair with simpler dishes such as roast pork with plum or apple sauce, or beef fillet for example.

Browse our selection of Montepulciano wines and find your favourite bottle.