Italy's international reputation as a wine-producing country is due to its wide range of prestigious appellations. Among the plethora of wines that are loved and prized by wine lovers, Abruzzo wines stand out as utter gems in their simple, refreshing style.
The vineyards of Abruzzo are predominantly rooted in mountains and hillsides, which enhances the well-defined curves of the vineyards. Indeed, the vineyards stretch from the Adriatic Sea to the Calderone glacier in the Apennine Mountains, poised at an altitude of almost 3000 metres above sea level. The region's unique features are indeed the very essence of Abruzzo's wines, as the soil is ideal for growing vines.
To preserve and highlight this region, a Consortium to protect Abruzzo wines was created in 2002. In addition, five Controlled Designations of Origin (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) celebrate the quality of these wines: Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC, Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC, Villamagna DOC, Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo DOC and Abruzzo DOC give rise to fine Italian wines that exude freshness and intensity.
The less well-known but highly acclaimed wines with a typical geographical indication also lend a richness of flavour that enhances the aromatic profile of Abruzzo wines.
The two most typical grape varieties cultivated by the region's winemakers are Montepulciano, a variety that boasts many similarities with Sangiovese, and Trebbiano. The better-known wines are those made from Montepulciano, which in some parts of Abruzzo are irresistible, full-bodied and offer an excellent ageing potential.
Abruzzo wines are greatly celebrated for their softness and smoothness in their youth, which gives way to a more powerful expression when they reach maturity, a characteristic for which these wines are internationally renowned.
