Abruzzo

Abruzzo is a predominantly mountainous and hilly region, with a mild climate, especially on the Adriatic side. The vineyard area exceeds 32,000 hectares , almost all of which is located in the hills.

The pergola, the counter-espalier, the spurred cordon and the guyot are widespread as training systems.

The history of viticulture in Abruzzo

The presence of vines in Abruzzo dates back to Roman times. Since then, in fact, the wines of Abruzzo have been mentioned in the writings of authors of all ages, starting with Polybius. Starting from the 19th century, the testimonies that refer to Montepulciano , somewhat the emblem of this territory, are innumerable.

The vines of Abruzzo

Most of the Abruzzo grape varieties, both black and white, are indigenous. The most famous is Montepulciano , widespread throughout the region and at the base of other red wines from neighboring regions, such as Rosso Conero, Rosso Piceno and Rosso Biferno. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a vine very resistant to parasites (however it is not free from powdery mildew), rich in polyphenolic substances, above all tannins and anthocyanins, responsible for the red colour. Sangiovese cannot be missing, as in all regions of central Italy. Passerina , a white grape variety, is present throughout the region, as is Trebbiano d'Abruzzo , used above all as a blend to give freshness to the blends. Among the other white grape varieties we can mention Cococciola and Pecorino . Among the international white grape varieties we can mention Chardonnay , Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris while among the black grape varieties Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Designations of Origin in Abruzzo

Among the denominations of origin of Abruzzo wines, the most famous is the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo delle Colline Teramane DOCG , whose wine compared to the corresponding Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC must mature for a year in wood before being placed on the market . The rosé Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo DOC is also obtained from Montepulciano. The other DOCG appellation is the Terre Tollesi or Tullum DOCG . Other DOCs of the region are the Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC , the Controguerra DOC (declined in different typologies, from passito to spumante, with autochthonous or international vines). A further denomination has recently been introduced, the Abruzzo DOC , which includes all the native vines of the Abruzzo area, also in the sparkling and straw typologies. Abruzzo has 7 DOC and 8 IGT denominations.