Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Italy, particularly thriving in the Abruzzo region, is the Montepulciano grape variety, a name that resonates with robust flavour and a rich heritage that dates decades back. Not to be confused with the Tuscan town of Montepulciano, where Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (made mainly from Sangiovese) is produced, the Montepulciano grape stands on its very own merits, crafting wines that delight the palate and enhance any type of dining experience. Let’s start delving straight into the world of Montepulciano wines, exploring their unique characteristics and the perfect culinary pairings that elevate them.
Montepulciano Grape Variety Characteristics
Montepulciano wines, most notably the Montepulciano of d’Abruzzo, are truly celebrated for their deep ruby red colour that practically jumps out of the glass, often edging towards a luscious, inky purple. A glass held up to the light reveals a rich palette of colours from the very heart of Italy’s wine-making tradition. An encapsulating swirl of a bouquet brimming with red and black fruits- think along the lines of blackberries, plums and cherries, complimented carefully by an inviting earthiness and subtle hints of pepper and spices. This is a wine that promises and delivers depth.
On the palate, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo does not disappoint. It’s full-bodied yet maintains a velvety texture that makes each sip a luxurious experience. The tannins are robust but well-rounded, merging seamlessly with moderate acidity to create a balanced finish. Montepulciano is unpretentious and complex. It’s wine that doesn’t intimidate but rather welcomes you into its world with every single glass.
Montepulciano Grape Variety Food Pairings
One of the most splendid aspects of enjoying Montepulciano is pairing it with food. The wine’s structure and flavour profile make it an incredibly versatile companion at the dinner table! We have a whole plethora of classic pairings that can bring out the best in Montepulciano grape variety wine. Whether used as a starter before a meal or as a beautiful lay out for family and friends, cheese and charcuterie is a perfect pairing for this stunning wine. Start your meal off with a platter of aged cheeses- think Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a Gouda. Add some prosciutto, saami and a few olives. The stunning fat and salt from cheese and meats enhance the fruity notes of the wine, creating a delightful contrast.
Pasta dishes also pair beautifully with Montepulciano wine. A hearty ragu or a bolognese sauce pairs wonderfully with this wine. The acidity of the tomatoes in the sauce balances out the robustness of the wine, while the savoury flavours of the meat complement the earthy tones. If you’re looking for vegetarian options for those who prefer a plant-based diet, mushrooms are a fantastic pairing with Montepulciano. A mushroom risotto or a hearty mushroom burger can mirror the earthy tones of wine beautifully!
A final but absolute favourite for this wine to go alongside nicely with is a plethora of grilled or roasted meats. Whether it’s a barbeque or a formal dinner, Montepulciano is a winning choice when it comes to red meats. Try it with grilled lamb chops, roasted pork or even a juicy steak. The overall smokiness from the grill and the rich flavours of the meat are perfect counterparts to this wine’s bold character.
Montepulciano Wine At The Little Fine Wine Company
From casual gatherings, to more festive occasions, this wine always brings a warmth and richness to the table- the type of wine that doesn’t need an occasion but can certainly create one! For those looking to explore the realms of Montepulciano wine further visit The Little Fine Wine Company today for a wide range of choice to browse, like our fan favourite Jasci Organic Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Half Bottle.
Montepulciano is more than just your typical wine: it’s a narrative of Italian winemaking tradition, all wrapped up in a bottle. So pour yourself a glass, prepare a favourite dish, and savour the rich, vibrant story that’s behind the bottle.