Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a type of red wine made from the Montepulciano grape variety in the Abruzzo region of east-central Italy. It is one of the most widely exported DOC wines from Italy.

History

The Montepulciano grape has been grown in Abruzzo since the late 18th century and is believed to have originated in the Tuscany region. The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC was established in 1968.

Production

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is produced in all four provinces of Abruzzo (L'Aquila, Chieti, Pescara, and Teramo). The wine is made primarily from the Montepulciano grape (minimum 85%), with up to 15% of other red grape varieties such as Sangiovese permitted. The wine must be aged for a minimum of 5 months prior to release, with Riserva wines requiring at least 2 years of aging, including 9 months in oak barrels.

Characteristics

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is typically a deep ruby red color and has a robust, full-bodied character. It is known for its rich flavors of ripe red fruits, often with notes of spice and leather. The wine typically has moderate to high tannins and good acidity, making it a good match for a wide range of foods.

Food Pairing

Due to its robust character and good acidity, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo pairs well with a variety of foods. It is often served with meat dishes, such as lamb and beef, as well as pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces. It also pairs well with aged cheeses.

See Also

• Italian wine
• List of Italian DOC wines
• Abruzzo (wine)