Abruzzo: Montepulciano and Trebbiano

Like so many regions of Central Italy, the cultivation of wine was introduced to Abruzzo by the Etruscans in the 6th and 7th centuries B.C.. It was not until the arrival of the Roman Empire however that the Abruzzese vineyards reached their full potential.

Numerous poets and writers of this period showered praise on the wines of this region, foremost among them the reknowned poet Ovid, native to the area. Today Abruzzo, although not honored to considered among the most important wine regions in Italy from the ontological point of view, still produces a good quality wine. Among these of special note are the two main D.O.C.s of the region, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Trebbiano d'Abruzzo.

The first, a red or rosè made from Montepulciano grapes is soft, with a light, pleasing, vinous bouquet and a mildly tannic finish. The second, produced from Trebbiano grapes, is a golden wheat color, and is dry with a delicate bouquet, a velvety texture and a harmonious composition.