Contesa Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Italy

The hills of Pescara rise gently above the Adriatic, and from these slopes the 2023 Contesa Montepulciano d’Abruzzo emerges with a kind of quiet power, deep, resonant, and unmistakably regional. It captures the warmth of Abruzzo’s long autumn days and the cool touch of its clay-chalk soils, delivering a red that feels both grounded in tradition and remarkably expressive. From its hand-selected fruit to its year of slow maturation in large Slavonian oak casks, every step in its making speaks to patient craftsmanship and a reverence for terroir.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Montepulciano
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Acidity: 5.8 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 0.9 g/L
• Soils: Clay and chalk
• Elevation: 250 m
• Vinification: 8–12 days maceration at 28–30°C; pumping over; fermented in stainless steel
• Aging: 12 months in 30 hl Slavonian oak + 4 months in bottle
• Farming: Sustainable (non-organic)
• Vegan: Yes

Sensory Description:

Warm and inviting on the nose, this Montepulciano reveals ripe black cherry, blackberry compote, dark chocolate shavings, and subtle spicy oak. The palate is generous and richly fruited, layering bramble and black cherry over supple yet structured tannins. A streak of bright acidity lengthens the finish, carrying notes of mocha, liquorice, and a touch of savory earth. The overall impression is one of harmony, powerful yet polished, vibrant yet elegantly composed.

Winemker's Background:

Azienda Agricola Contesa, founded in the rolling countryside of Collecorvino, is known for elevating Montepulciano to new levels of finesse without abandoning its rustic charm. The estate focuses on careful vineyard selection, hand harvesting, and meticulous cellar work, from temperature-controlled macerations to aging in traditional large Slavonian casks. Contesa has built its reputation on wines that balance purity of fruit with structure, showcasing the authentic character of Abruzzo’s terroir.

Serving Suggestions:

This Montepulciano excels alongside hearty dishes such as braised beef, grilled lamb, roasted pork, and rich pasta al ragù. Its structured tannins and bright acidity also pair beautifully with aged cheeses, mushrooms, and herb-roasted vegetables. Serve at 16–18°C to highlight the wine’s dark fruits, silky depth, and long, elegant finish.