Montepulciano is one of Italy’s most cherished red grape varieties, known for producing bold, deeply colored wines that are both versatile and approachable. 

It is often confused with the famous Tuscan town of Montepulciano, but the grape primarily hails from the Abruzzo region in central Italy.

In this article, we will explore the origins of Montepulciano, where it’s made, the soils and grapes used in its production, and introduce some excellent examples available from Donzella Wines—a major importer of high-quality Montepulciano wines in the UK.

Montepulciano is a grape variety that thrives in the central and southern regions of Italy, with Abruzzo being its spiritual home. 

Known for its intense, rich red wines, Montepulciano is celebrated for producing robust wines that maintain a balance between fruitiness, acidity, and tannins. 

These wines often showcase dark cherry, plum, and berry flavors, along with earthy notes like tobacco, herbs, and sometimes chocolate.

Contrary to the common misconception, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo refers to the wine produced from Montepulciano grapes grown in Abruzzo, not the town of Montepulciano, which is famous for producing Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a different wine made from the Sangiovese grape.

Where It’s Made and Its Origins

Montepulciano grapes are grown primarily in the Abruzzo region, although you will also find them in other Italian regions like Marche, Molise, and Lazio. 

The heart of Montepulciano production is the province of Chieti, located on the Adriatic coast, where the climate is ideal for viticulture. The proximity to the sea ensures temperate weather, while the Apennine Mountains provide a cooling influence, creating the perfect conditions for slow grape ripening.

Montepulciano is also produced under the prestigious DOCG label, such as Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Colline Teramane, which denotes a higher level of quality and stricter production rules.

Soil and Grapes Used

The soils of the Abruzzo region play a critical role in shaping the character of Montepulciano wines. 

The terrain is predominantly clay and limestone, with sandy or stony elements in some areas. Clay helps retain moisture, which is essential during hot, dry summers, while limestone imparts a mineral freshness to the wines, balancing their naturally rich fruitiness.

The Montepulciano grape itself is known for its thick skins, which contribute to the wine's deep color and moderate tannins. Its late-ripening nature allows the grape to develop concentrated flavors, making it ideal for producing wines that can age beautifully while still being enjoyable in their youth.

At Donzella Wines, we pride ourselves on being one of the leading importers of Montepulciano in the UK. We work closely with producers to source some of the finest expressions of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, ensuring that wine lovers in the UK have access to exceptional wines at competitive prices.

Featured Montepulciano Wines

1. Libero Arbitrio Montepulciano d’Abruzzo – £8.50

This Libero Arbitrio Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a standout example of the grape's versatility. The wine is made with organically farmed Montepulciano grapes and fermented with native yeasts, allowing for a natural and expressive profile. It has an intense ruby-red color, with aromas of black cherries, plums, and herbs. On the palate, expect well-integrated tannins, bright acidity, and a long, satisfying finish with a touch of spice.

This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as lamb stew, lasagna, or mushroom risotto. Its price reflects its quality and dedication to traditional winemaking methods.

2. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOP 2020 Montupoli Miglianico – £9.50

If you're looking for an excellent value for money, the Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOP 2020 Montupoli Miglianico is a fantastic choice. Priced at £9.50, this wine offers vibrant fruit-forward flavors of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of spice. It’s medium-bodied with a pleasant freshness that makes it easy to drink.

This wine is an excellent match for casual meals like pizza, pasta with tomato-based sauces, or grilled sausages. Its approachable style makes it an ideal wine for everyday enjoyment.

3. Il Fondatore Riserva DOP 2017 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo – £16.50

For those seeking a more premium expression of Montepulciano, the Il Fondatore Riserva DOP 2017 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a perfect option. Priced at £16.50, this Riserva is made from carefully selected grapes and aged in oak barrels for extended periods, resulting in a complex and refined wine.

The nose reveals layers of dark fruit, tobacco, leather, and subtle oak nuances, while the palate offers a full-bodied structure with rich tannins and a lingering finish. This is a wine that can age gracefully, making it an excellent choice for collectors or special occasions.

Pair this Riserva with roast meats, aged cheeses, or even enjoy it on its own to savor its depth and complexity.

Color

Montepulciano wines are typically deep ruby red, with some examples bordering on purple due to the grape's thick skins.

Aroma

Expect aromas of ripe black and red fruits like plums, cherries, and blackberries, often accompanied by notes of herbs, leather, and earthy spices.

Flavor

On the palate, Montepulciano wines are known for their full-bodied nature, with flavors of dark fruit, licorice, tobacco, and sometimes chocolate. The tannins are generally moderate, making these wines approachable, while the acidity is bright enough to provide balance and freshness.

Finish

Montepulciano wines often have a long, lingering finish, especially in well-made examples. The best bottles offer complexity with additional layers of flavor as the wine opens up in the glass.

Montepulciano is a grape that has earned its place as one of Italy’s finest red varietals, offering a diverse range of wine styles from everyday drinking wines to cellar-worthy Riservas. Whether you’re new to Montepulciano or a seasoned fan, Donzella Wines provides an excellent selection of this grape’s finest expressions. From the Libero Arbitrio Montepulciano d'Abruzzo to the Il Fondatore Riserva, there is a Montepulciano wine for every occasion.

Explore our full selection of Montepulciano wines and experience the rich flavors and history that make this grape so beloved.