Abruzzo

• Montepulciano d'Abruzzo: The region’s star red grape, known for deeply colored wines with flavors of cherry, plum, blackberry, and hints of pepper, licorice, and tobacco. Styles vary from approachable DOC bottlings to age-worthy Riservas, peaking in the structured Colline Teramane DOCG.
• Trebbiano d'Abruzzo: The leading white, especially the prized Trebbiano Abruzzese clone, creates crisp, golden wines with green apple, citrus, and stone fruit flavors that develop complexity with age.
• Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo: A bold, cherry-red rosé made from Montepulciano, bursting with cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate—vibrant and food-friendly.
• Pecorino: An aromatic white grape making a comeback, offering high acidity, saline minerality, and notes of jasmine, peach, and citrus.
• Other Locals: Passerina, Cococciola, and Montonico produce refreshing, lively whites with bright acidity.

Abruzzo's terroir is a fascinating mix of mountains and sea. The Apennines, topped by Gran Sasso, create a protective rain shadow effect. This setting allows for significant temperature changes, with warm days increasing sugar levels and cool nights preserving acidity and aromatic complexity. The Adriatic Sea adds abundant sunshine and refreshing coastal breezes to the climate.

The region's soils vary, featuring calcareous clay and limestone in the Teramo and Chieti hills, which are ideal for structured Montepulciano and mineral-driven whites. The coastal plains have fertile alluvial and sandy soils, producing softer, fruit-forward wines. The traditional tendone vine training system remains common, shading grapes from the intense sun. This diverse environment supports Abruzzo's rich wine culture, blending tradition and innovation.

Abruzzo is home to some exceptional wineries that highlight the region's dedication to quality and tradition. Here are a few notable ones:

• Masciarelli: Founded in 1981, this winery is a trailblazer, blending global techniques with local traditions to elevate Montepulciano wines.
• Emidio Pepe: Known for natural and biodynamic wines since 1964, this family-run estate emphasizes traditional methods and long-aging practices.
• Valentini: A legendary estate producing some of Italy's most revered wines, known for their selective bottling and exceptional Trebbiano d'Abruzzo.
• Cantina Tollo: This cooperative is a leader in sustainable practices, offering a wide range of high-quality wines and spearheading the region's quality shift.

Abruzzo is a pioneer in sustainable winemaking, harmonizing its rich wine heritage with environmental stewardship. The region boasts a growing number of organic and biodynamic vineyards, with producers embracing natural methods to preserve their stunning landscapes. From small family-owned estates to large cooperatives, the commitment to eco-friendly practices spans the entire wine community.

With several wineries achieving organic (Biologico) and biodynamic (Demeter) certifications, Abruzzo leads Italy in integrated sustainability. The region’s first-in-Italy Equalitas certification showcases its dedication to environmental, social, and economic responsibility. Innovations such as sustainable packaging further underscore this commitment. Together, these efforts ensure Abruzzo not only maintains its rich winemaking tradition but also protects its natural environment for future generations.

Abruzzo offers a captivating wine tourism experience, blending rich culture, scenic beauty, and authentic flavors. This central Italian region, with its Apennine Mountains and Adriatic coastline, invites exploration through its six official Wine Routes and ten themed itineraries.

Visitors can enjoy guided tastings and vineyard tours at an increasing number of wineries, such as Fontefico, enhancing their understanding of local varietals like Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Pecorino. Unique food and wine pairings further enrich the experience. For those seeking luxury, Masciarelli’s Castello di Semivicoli provides an elegant stay. The annual Cantine Aperte event in May highlights Abruzzo's communal spirit, with wineries hosting special events and tastings. This interactive approach, combined with a commitment to sustainability, positions Abruzzo as an emerging gem in the world of wine tourism, offering both tradition and innovation.