Montepulciano
Tasting Notes
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine has a rich history that dates back to the late medieval era. The Montepulciano grape, which is used to produce this wine, is believed to have reached Abruzzo in the late medieval period and became a mainstay by the 18th century. The Abruzzo region is in central Italy encompassing 4 provinces and bordering the Adriatic sea.
🎯 Overall Character - Montepulciano is best described as a dark and deeply coloured wine. It is savory and herbal, and generously fruited. Firm tannins soften with age. Elevated acidity makes it extremely food friendly. It’s richer than Chianti, more approachable than many Nebbiolos, and incredibly versatile at the table.
🍒 On the Nose (Aromatics) - Blackberry, black cherry, mulberry, plum, rose, tea leaf, and subtle floral notes. Notes of pepper and spice are also present. The aromatics are often richer and darker than Sangiovese.
🍷 On the Palate - Medium to full body, high acidity, grippy, savory tannins that are greater than a Merlot however softer than a young Nebbiolo (Barolo). Flavours include dark cherry, plum, blackberry, and mulberry. The wine also provides Herbal notes of bay leaf, oregano, thyme and rosemary. Savory tones of cocoa, coffee, balsamic, tobacco‑like flavors develop with age.
🕰️ Aging Profile - Top Montepulciano’s can age 8–15+ years.
Food Pairing
Montepulciano (especially Montepulciano d’Abruzzo) is bold, dark‑fruited, earthy, peppery, and medium‑tannic, with enough acidity to handle rich dishes but not so much that it clashes with hearty sauces. Best paired with pizza, strong cheeses, and starchy comfort foods.
🥩 1. Hearty Meat Dishes -Montepulciano’s tannins and acidity make it a natural partner for rich, savory meats. Lamb kebabs, grilled meats (especially with Mediterranean herbs), hamburgers loaded with mushrooms, beef bolognese, and shepherd’s pie. The wine’s dark fruit, pepper, and earthy notes complement grilled and braised flavors beautifully.
🍕 2. Pizza & Tomato‑Based Pasta - Montepulciano is repeatedly described as a pizza lover’s wine. Ideal pairings include pizza of all kinds (especially pepperoni or mushroom), lasagna, baked ziti, pasta Amatriciana (classic Abruzzo pairing). The wine’s acidity balances tomato sauce, while its tannins handle cheese and meat.
🧀 3. Cheese Pairings - Medium to firm, flavorful cheeses. Best matches include Parmesan, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, American cheese (great with pizza or burgers).
🍗 4. Poultry & Pork - Roasted pork, pork with herbs, dark‑meat chicken and Charcuterie boards (salami, pepperoni, cured meats).
🥔 5. Starchy & Comfort Foods - Montepulciano’s earthy, savory notes shine with hearty sides such as Loaded baked potato, French fries or potato wedges and Wild rice dishes.
🍄 6. Vegetarian Pairings - Mushroom dishes, starchy vegetable dishes and herb‑driven preparations.
Roasted Pork
Lasagna
Pizza
Mushroom dishes