Abruzzo

Abruzzo is a very varied and interesting region that has experienced a substantial growth in wine quality in recent years, due to countless initiatives aimed at the pursuit of excellence in the agri-food sector. Viticulture here has very ancient origins and dates back to Roman times. Today, the area planted with vines in Abruzzo exceeds 35,000 hectares, of which almost 96% is in the hills, while 4% is mountain viticulture. 

The undisputed protagonist of Abruzzo viticulture is Montepulciano: widespread throughout the region and neighbouring regions. It is a rustic, hardy vine and the Abruzzi hills undoubtedly bring out the best of its characteristics. Other native vines include: Montonico, grown on the slopes of Gran Sasso, from which a wine with unique characteristics is produced, both in the still and sparkling versions using the classic method. The Passerina grown in the Teramano area, in the municipalities of Controguerra and its surroundings. Trebbiano d'Abruzzo, known for its great acidity and is usually used as a blend to give freshness to blends. Cococciola, a white grape variety with large berries from the province of Chieti, cultivated in particular in the municipalities of Vacri and Villamagna. The Pecorino and Sangiovese, which is also inevitable in Abruzzo, as in all the regions of central Italy. International white grape varieties include Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Pinot Grigio and Merlot, Cabernet franc and Cabernet sauvignon with black grapes.

Abruzzo also boasts two DOCG, seven DOC and eight IGT.
The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Colline Teramane DOCG, is a red wine made from a prevalence of Montepulciano grapes and may be accompanied by a maximum of 10% Sangiovese. The DOC Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Trebbiano d'Abruzzo, a white wine made from Trebbiano or white Bombino grapes, Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo, a rosé wine made from Montepulciano grapes, and Abruzzo, a denomination produced in all types, are produced throughout the region. Also worth mentioning is the Terre di Chieti IGT denomination, which represents one of the most important wine-growing areas in the Abruzzo region. The wines of the Terre di Chieti IGT denomination are mainly based on the grape varieties Bombino bianco, Chardonnay, Cococciola, Falanghina, Fiano, Montonico bianco, Passerina, Pecorino, Pinot bianco, Pinot grigio, Riesling Italico, Sauvignon, Trebbiano Abruzzese, Trebbiano Toscano, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot nero and Sangiovese.