Masegna Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2020

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo showcases the unique terroir of Italy's mountainous Abruzzo region, where the grape develops its signature inky colour and robust character. Unlike the more famous Sangiovese-based wines from Tuscany, Montepulciano offers greater intensity and fuller body with prominent dark fruit flavours. The variety's natural tendency toward rich tannins and subtle acidity makes it particularly age-worthy, developing complex earthy notes over time.

This full-bodied Montepulciano benefits from being served at cellar temperature (16-18°C) to showcase its rich cherry and plum characteristics. Consider decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving to allow the wine's robust tannins to soften and the floral aromatics to emerge. The wine's intensity pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like braised lamb, aged cheeses, or rustic Italian pasta with rich tomato-based sauces.

This confusion stems from Italian wine naming conventions where places and grapes often share similar names. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is made from the Montepulciano grape variety grown in the Abruzzo region, while Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is produced in the Tuscan town of Montepulciano using primarily Sangiovese grapes. The two wines offer completely different flavour profiles - this Abruzzo version being much richer and more full-bodied than its Tuscan namesake.

The wine's combination of dark cherry fruit and earthy undertones creates excellent synergy with grilled red meats, particularly those with herb crusts or mushroom accompaniments. The robust tannin structure can handle rich, fatty dishes like osso buco or aged hard cheeses such as Pecorino Romano. For a regional pairing, try it with Abruzzese specialities like arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers) or pasta all'amatriciana, where the wine's acidity complements tomato-based sauces perfectly.

While the 2020 vintage is still developing its reputation on the awards circuit, it follows the established Masegna tradition of producing gold medal-winning Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines. The 2020 growing season in Abruzzo benefited from ideal mountain climate conditions, producing wines with excellent concentration and balanced acidity. Given the producer's consistent track record and this vintage's promising structure, it's likely to follow the same trajectory of critical acclaim as its predecessors while offering excellent drinking pleasure now.