La Grondaia Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC 2018

Case of 6 bottles.

Made from 100% Montepulciano grapes, hand-harvested in late October from low-yield vineyards on the Marcantonio estate planted 127 metres a.s.l.. With the Adriatic Sea to the east, and protected by the Majella mountain to the west, these vineyards are planted in calcareous-clay soil and ripen under the dry sun of the hills. Combined, this allows for rich mineral aromatics and complex structure to develop naturally in the grapes. 

The Montepulciano grape (pronounced mon-tay-pul-chee-ano) is widely planted along the Adriatic coast, but it is most well known in the region of Abruzzo. 

Traditional red wine vinification - following crushing and destemming, the grapes are kept on the skins for 15-20 days to extract colour and flavour. A soft pressing follows, and fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks. The wine is aged in stainless-steel tanks for 36 months, and rests in bottle for six more months. Alc./Vol. 13.9% R.S. <3.0 gr/L. 

Our tasting note: Deep ruby red colour with purple tinges. Complex aromas and flavours of cherry and plum with spicy notes of pepper, licorice, and dried herbs.  Dry, medium- to full-bodied, balanced tannins, good acidity, and an elegant finish.

Food matches: Pair with grilled/roast meats (beef, lamb, veal, pork), pasta with ragù, spicy/earthy vegetarian dishes, and aged cheeses.