Abruzzo’s climate and topography is as varied as any province in Italy. The regions wines, born mostly from the Montepulciano grape, are directly impacted by these various microclimates. From the Colline Teramo on which I previously reported, to the lower lying areas of today’s wine, results can differ dramatically.
In part 2 of our Montepulciano mini-series, we focus on a winery located closer to the coast, near Pescara. La Valentina was founded in 1990 by Sabatino, Roberto and Andrea Di Properzio and ever since they have stressed terroir above all. They aim for the fruit “to be tainted by the vineyard” – as Sabatino explains – and to that end, each step in the process is natural, organic, chemical free and carefully observed.
The 2009 Spelt Montepulciano d’Abruzzo hails from the Santa Teresa vineyard. It’s a dark, deep purple in the glass. Immediately the taster is struck by dark fruit and floral aromas. They are notable and sustaining. On the palate, the wine is elegant, but still maintains a certain rusticity. The core flavors are black plum accented with sweet herbs and a touch of vanilla spice. Well balanced on a medium bodied frame, the wine easily has the stuffing to last in a cellar for 3-5 years. In fact, a year in bottle may develop some additional complexity in this wine. It’s hard to wait though. This is charming now and the price is compelling. 87 points, about $15.
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| ~ Beautiful color in this Single Vineyard Montepulciano ~ |
Salute!
John, not far from some of your recently reviewed Brunello wines!
The picture is amazing!
Nice post my friend!
Yeah, it's definitely food for thought. Though I'm to,ld the price is doubling next vintage, so the value may jot be there for long.