Indigenous grapes and a rich terroir produce affordable wines of elegance
By Dwight Casimere
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is an Italian wine made from the Montepulciano grape from the Abruzzo wine region in east-central Italy. While a mouthful to say, it has earned its place among wine-lovers in the U.S. who have made it one of the most widely exported premium wines from Italy.
It is characteristically a dry wine with soft tannins, which makes it a perfect wine to have with lunch or dinner. Medium bodied, it goes with just about anything, even white meats and fish. Cheeses, pasta and pizza are its natural companions. A good burger, or even a Rueben sandwich find themselves right at home with these delightful wines.
Montepulciano permits some blending with its native grape varieties. Usually, the wines are topped off with up to 15% of Sangiovese, the King of Italian grape varieties. This makes for a complex wine with subtle notes, suitable for a fine meal, or just enjoying on its own by the fire.
One particularly satisfying discovery during my visit last spring to the Abruzzo wine route was the Margiotta Winery, where I discovered its Cretara Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.
Margiotta Winery grows only indigenous grape varieties, from its signature Montepulciano to Pecorino and Trebbiano grapes. Indigenous grapes represent the winery’s commitment to the concept of biodiversity and respect for the environment.
Made from 100% Montepulciano grapes, Cretara is a wine with a brilliant cherry color and the intense aromas of crushed violets, followed by a taste bursting with the flavors of cherries, strawberries, and pomegranate. Floral scents persist throughout, adding an elegant note to the tasting experience.
Soft, with a delicate balance of tannins and crisp alcohol and mineral acidity, this is a stimulating wine that begs for food.
The wine carries well straight through the meal, from Antipasti to a first course of local vegetable soups, such as squash or lentil and mains of Roast Chicken or Braised lamb shank. Whole roasted Branzino or Wild Caught Salmon stuffed with fresh herbs such as Sage or Thyme with a side of Roasted Rosemary Potatoes and Grilled Brussels Sprouts drizzled with Balsamic and Extra Virgin Olive Oil are right at home with this luscious wine. Followed by a Chocolate Cannoli or Tiramisu, you have the makings of a perfect post-holiday meal.
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