Discover Montepulciano d’Abruzzo in Abruzzo, Italy
Nestled in the heart of Abruzzo, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo offers a captivating blend of rich wine heritage and stunning landscapes. This region beckons wine enthusiasts and travelers alike with its robust reds and charming hilltop towns.
Towns and Villages
Explore the picturesque towns that dot the Abruzzo landscape, each offering unique charm and wine experiences:
- Teramo: Known for its medieval architecture and proximity to top wineries
- Penne: A hilltop town with panoramic views and excellent local wines
- Atri: Home to beautiful frescoes and traditional wine cellars
- Loreto Aprutino: Boasts a castle and renowned olive oil, complementing its wine scene
Wine Producers
Visit these notable wineries to taste exceptional Montepulciano d’Abruzzo:
- Emidio Pepe: Famed for organic, age-worthy wines
- Masciarelli: Offers tours and tastings in a stunning castle setting
- Tiberio: Known for innovative winemaking techniques
- Torre dei Beati: Produces award-winning organic wines
Accommodations
Stay at these wine-focused accommodations for an immersive experience:
- Castello di Semivicoli: A luxurious wine resort with breathtaking views
- Agriturismo Emidio Pepe: Stay on the grounds of the famous winery
- Villa Danilo: A boutique hotel with an extensive wine cellar
- Casale Centurione: A charming farmhouse surrounded by vineyards
Dining
Savor local cuisine paired with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo at these restaurants:
- La Bandiera (Civitella Casanova): Michelin-starred restaurant emphasizing local ingredients
- Zunica 1880 (Civitella del Tronto): Historic eatery with an impressive wine list
- Osteria La Corte (Guardiagrele): Rustic dishes perfectly complementing regional wines
- Villa Maiella (Guardiagrele): Refined Abruzzese cuisine with an extensive wine selection
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore these local wine shops and bars to taste and purchase Montepulciano d’Abruzzo:
- Enoteca Regionale d’Abruzzo (Ortona): Extensive selection of regional wines
- La Cantina di Romagnoli (Teramo): Family-run shop with expert recommendations
- Enoteca La Loggia (Sulmona): Charming wine bar in a historic setting
- Vini e Oli Cancelli (Pescara): Offers wine tastings and local olive oils
Other Shops
Complement your wine experience with local specialties:
- Bottega dei Sapori (L’Aquila): Artisanal cheeses and cured meats
- Pasta all’Uovo Rustichella d’Abruzzo (Pianella): Handmade pasta to pair with your wines
- Tartufi&Co (Teramo): Truffle products and local delicacies
- Confetti Pelino (Sulmona): Famous sugared almonds, a traditional Abruzzese treat
Attractions
Explore these attractions between wine tastings:
- Castello Aragonese (Ortona): 15th-century fortress with sea views
- Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga: Stunning hiking trails and wildlife
- Civitella del Tronto Fortress: One of Europe’s largest fortresses
- Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo (L’Aquila): Regional art and archaeological finds
Events
Plan your visit around these wine-related events:
- Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Festival (August, various locations): Wine tastings and cultural events
- Cantine Aperte (May, region-wide): Open cellar days at participating wineries
- Pescara Wine Festival (July): Showcasing regional wines and cuisine
- Festa dell’Uva (September, Ortona): Traditional grape harvest celebration
Appellations
Understand the key wine appellations of the region:
- Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC: The primary appellation for red wines
- Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC: For white wines made from Trebbiano grapes
- Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC: Rosé wines made from Montepulciano grapes
- Controguerra DOC: A smaller appellation known for diverse wine styles
Grape Varieties
Montepulciano is the primary grape variety in Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wines. This robust red grape thrives in Abruzzo’s climate.
Other varieties found in the region include:
- Trebbiano (white)
- Pecorino (white)
- Sangiovese (red)
Main Wine Styles
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC is the flagship red wine of the region. It’s known for its deep color and rich, fruity flavors.
Other notable styles include:
- Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo (rosé)
- Trebbiano d’Abruzzo (white)
- Pecorino (white)
Food Specialties
Abruzzo’s cuisine pairs wonderfully with its wines. Arrosticini, skewered lamb, is a local favorite.
Other regional specialties include:
- Maccheroni alla chitarra (pasta)
- Porchetta (roast pork)
- Pecorino cheese
Drives & Walks
The Strada del Vino Montepulciano d’Abruzzo offers a scenic drive through vineyards and charming towns.
For hiking enthusiasts, the nearby Majella National Park provides stunning trails with views of the Adriatic Sea.
Itineraries
A 3-day wine tour could include:
- Day 1: Visit Cantina Zaccagnini and explore Pescara
- Day 2: Tour Masciarelli winery and the medieval town of Guardiagrele
- Day 3: Discover Emidio Pepe winery and relax in Civitella del Tronto
For a week-long trip, add visits to the coast and national parks.
Getting There & Around
The main airport serving Abruzzo is Abruzzo International Airport in Pescara. From here, renting a car is the best way to explore the wine region.
Public transportation options include:
- Trains connecting major towns
- Buses for reaching smaller villages
- Taxis for short trips
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal weather for wine tours and outdoor activities.
Key considerations:
- Summer can be hot, but perfect for beach visits
- Winter sees fewer tourists, but some wineries may have limited hours
- Harvest season (September-October) provides unique winery experiences
Sustainability Efforts
Many Abruzzo wineries are adopting organic and biodynamic practices. Look for certifications like “Biologico” on wine labels.
Eco-friendly initiatives include:
- Solar-powered wineries
- Water conservation techniques
- Local, seasonal ingredients in restaurants
Language Tips
While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Italian phrases enhances your experience. Key wine-related terms:
- Vino rosso – Red wine
- Vino bianco – White wine
- Cantina – Winery
- Salute! – Cheers!
Further Resources
For more information on Abruzzo’s wine scene, check out:
- Consorzio Tutela Vini d’Abruzzo – Official consortium website
- Abruzzo Tourism – Regional tourism board
- “Abruzzo Wine” by Luciano Di Gregorio – Comprehensive guide book
