Grape: Montepulciano
Region: Abruzzo, Italy
Features: Organic

Distributor's Notes:

"The Montepulciano d’Abruzzo “normale” is sourced from 20-year-old vines rooted in calcareous-clay soils at around 200 meters of elevation, hand-harvested and vinified with a classic 20-day maceration before aging for roughly one year in stainless steel followed by bottle rest to preserve purity of fruit. In the glass it shows a vivid ruby hue, offering aromas of fresh cherry, plum, and red currant accented by subtle floral and mineral tones. The palate is medium-bodied and supple, marked by juicy red fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a lively vein of acidity that keeps the wine lifted and precise, finishing clean with hints of raspberry, spice, and a touch of earth—an approachable yet authentic Montepulciano that highlights freshness and clarity over oak influence. Founded in 2004 by Augusto Tano and Anna Giovanna Di Ludovico, the estate is located in Lanciano, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Maiella Mountains. Still fully family-owned and managed, Augusto and Anna, together with their three children, oversee both vineyard operations and winemaking. The property spans 15–17 hectares at an elevation of around 200 meters, with medium-textured clay and calcareous soils enriched by the presence of volcanic obsidian. From the outset, the family embraced organic farming, quickly converting the vineyards and eschewing the use of herbicides or pesticides. Several parcels now exceed 30 years of age, with dense plantings of about 5,000 vines per hectare designed to encourage concentration. Harvesting is done by hand, yields are kept low, and the philosophy in both vineyard and cellar is one of minimal intervention. Traditional methods are carefully combined with modern temperature-controlled vinification to produce both D.O.P. and I.G.T. wines that are expressive of their origin. The core of production is Montepulciano d’Abruzzo D.O.P., sourced from vines around 20 years old. Grapes are hand-harvested, macerated for about 20 days, and then aged in stainless steel for roughly a year before additional bottle rest. The resulting wine offers aromas of red fruit, plum, and jam, with a full-bodied palate of soft tannins and lingering cherry and raspberry notes. Wine Enthusiast rated the 2022 vintage 89/100, citing smoky, tart blackberry, chocolate, and zippy acidity. The estate also produces three white varietal wines — Trebbiano d’Abruzzo D.O.P., Pecorino D.O.P., and Passerina D.O.P. — all fermented and aged in stainless steel, crisp, and food-friendly. Among these, the Pecorino stands out for its citrus and floral aromatics, firm minerality, and fuller body, making it equally suited as an aperitif or a versatile companion at the table."