La Valentina, Montepulcciano d’Abruzzo 2022

Fattoria La Valentina, established in 1990 in Spoltore, Abruzzo, is renowned for producing wines that authentically represent the region’s terroir. Their Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2022 is crafted exclusively from 100% Montepulciano grapes, reflecting the winery's commitment to quality and tradition.

The vineyards are located in the municipalities of Spoltore, San Valentino, and Scafa, situated at altitudes ranging from 150 to 400 metres above sea level. The south to south-west exposure, combined with clay-limestone soils, provides an ideal environment for cultivating Montepulciano vines. The 2022 vintage benefited from favourable weather conditions, resulting in grapes of exceptional quality.

Appearance: The wine exhibits a deep ruby-red colour with subtle violet hues, indicating its youth and vibrancy. When swirled in the glass, it showcases excellent clarity and medium-high density, with slow, elegant legs forming along the rim. The richness of the colour suggests depth and concentration, highlighting the expressive nature of Montepulciano.

Aroma: The nose is greeted with clean, intense, and persistent aromas of red fruits, notably blackberries and sour cherries. These fruity notes are complemented by subtle hints of violets and lavender, adding complexity and depth to the bouquet. As the wine opens up, delicate nuances of tobacco, black pepper, and liquorice emerge, reflecting the influence of the clay-limestone terroir and careful aging.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is full and fruity, offering a harmonious blend of ripe red berries and a touch of sour citrus. The medium-bodied profile is enhanced by soft, well-integrated tannins and a balanced acidity, providing a smooth and refreshing mouthfeel. A subtle spiciness adds complexity, leading to a satisfying and approachable experience.

Finish: The finish is clean, persistent, and layered, with lingering notes of tobacco, liquorice, and a delicate hint of dark cocoa. The well-balanced acidity ensures a lively and fresh aftertaste, while a gentle minerality adds structure and finesse. As the wine fades, a soft echo of black cherry and earthy undertones emerges, leaving a velvety yet refreshing sensation that lingers long after the last sip.

Food Pairing: The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2022 pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Its versatility makes it an excellent companion to typical Abruzzo cold cuts, pasta with garlic and oil, porchetta, arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers), grilled chicken, and fish broth. The wine’s acidity and fruit-forward character also make it a great match for aged cheeses and tomato-based pasta dishes. Serving at a temperature of 14-16°C is recommended to fully appreciate its vibrant flavours and elegant profile.

The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2022 exemplifies Fattoria La Valentina’s dedication to crafting wines that capture the essence of Abruzzo’s terroir, offering a distinctive and pleasurable tasting experience.