Bastioni della Rocca Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Tasting Notes from the Curator

The Bastioni della Rocca Montepulciano d’Abruzzo boasts a rich aromatic profile, characterized by primary aromas of dark fruits like blackberry and plum. These offer a deep, sweet, and slightly tart presence. Secondary aromas bring cherries into the mix, offering a bright and fruity note accompanied by warm, piquant black pepper and the added depth of clove or cinnamon. Tertiary aromas reveal earthy elements that reflect the unique Abruzzo terroir, with minerality and herbal notes contributing to the complexity.

The flavor profile is intricate, dominated by dark fruits—the richness of blackberry and the juiciness of plum are complemented by the refreshing acidity of cherries. Spicy and earthy flavors are highlighted by black pepper’s complexity and the earthy terroir influence. Elegance and freshness define the experience, with the balance between flavor and long finish marking its quality. The texture sees a full-bodied robustness perfect for hearty meals, with smooth, velvety tannins and balanced, fresh acidity enhancing its food-friendliness. This Montepulciano d’Abruzzo offers a refined and persistent tasting experience, a testament to its meticulous crafting.

Pairings & Suggestions

• Grilled Meats: The smoky char of grilled ribeye, lamb chops, or pork tenderloin complements the wine’s rich fruit and earthy notes. A marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and black pepper enhances these flavors further.
• Roasted Meats: Roasted beef with garlic and herbs, herb-crusted leg of lamb, or roast duck with cherry glaze pairs beautifully with the wine’s acidity and tannins. Use dry rubs or herb crusts and serve with reduction sauces from drippings to enrich the experience.
• Hearty Stews: Beef bourguignon, osso buco, or lamb stew with root veggies offer a hearty match for the wine’s complexity. Slow cooking with a splash of red wine in the stew can create a harmonious blend.
• Rich Pasta Dishes: Enjoy with pasta dishes featuring Bolognese, creamy mushroom, or tomato-based sauces with meatballs. High-quality pasta and well-simmered sauces add depth to this pairing.
• Aged and Semi-Hard Cheeses: Aged Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or Grana Padano balance the wine’s tannins and acidity. Additionally, pair with semi-hard cheeses like Manchego and Gouda for milder flavors, serving with crusty bread and fig jam.

Historic Tapestry of Abruzzo

Abruzzo, the home of Bastioni della Rocca, is a region southeast of Italy known for its diverse landscape, with the Adriatic Sea to the east and the Apennine Mountains to the west. This varied topography, coupled with a Mediterranean climate, creates distinct microclimates perfect for viticulture. The ancient roots of winemaking in Abruzzo trace back to Roman times when vineyards were meticulously cultivated. The Montepulciano grape, a cornerstone of this wine, thrives in Abruzzo’s heterogeneous soils, producing wines with bold colors and robust tannins. The region is famed for its dedication to traditional techniques while embracing innovation. Bastioni della Rocca encapsulates this blend of history and modernity, celebrating the heritage of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo while ensuring it meets contemporary palates. This commitment makes each bottle not only a fine wine but a narrative anthology of Abruzzo’s cultural and agricultural evolution.

Storage Instructions

Store Bastioni della Rocca Montepulciano d’Abruzzo in a cool, dark place. Ideal conditions include a temperature of 55°F-65°F and 50%-70% humidity, with bottles positioned horizontally.