Montepulciano wine is made from the Montepulciano grape, primarily grown in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. This grape yields wines known for their deep ruby colour, bold flavours, and earthy complexity. Think of it as a more rustic and adventurous cousin to merlot or shiraz.
Montepulciano wine offers bold flavours of dark fruit, often with earthy notes like liquorice and tobacco. Depending on how it's made, you might also find hints of chocolate or vanilla from oak ageing. It's a full-bodied wine with firm tannins, making it a perfect partner for rich dishes.
Montepulciano is a fantastic food wine thanks to its bold fruit and earthy complexity. It loves rich, savoury dishes. Think hearty pasta with ragu, grilled lamb chops, or even a juicy burger. Its acidity cuts through fat, while the tannins stand up to robust flavours. For a real treat, try it with some Pecorino cheese – a match made in Italian heaven.
Montepulciano stands out from other red wines with its Italian origin and unique flavour profile. While it shares dark fruit notes with wines like shiraz, it often has more pronounced earthy and spicy undertones - like liquorice or even tobacco. Essentially, it offers a bolder, more rustic experience compared to some of its smoother red counterparts.