Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a widely planted red grape of central and southern Italy, most famously associated with Abruzzo, where it thrives in warm, sunny, coastal-influenced climates. It is a vigorous, productive variety that forms large, compact clusters of thick-skinned berries, ripening late and benefiting from extended hangtime to develop full color and flavor. The vine prefers well-drained clay and calcareous soils and performs best in sites with good exposure to ensure full phenolic maturity. Montepulciano wines are typically deep ruby to purple in color, with moderate acidity, ample tannins, and generous flavors of dark cherries, plums, herbs, and spice. Styles range from fresh, everyday expressions to more concentrated, oak-aged bottlings with notable depth and aging potential.