The 2015 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Vecchie Vigne opens slowly in the glass. Coaxing reveals an elegant mix of fresh mint, red currant, roses and a dusting of spice. It washes across the palate with beautiful finesse, lifted and fresh, showing no sign of its warm vintage origins. Sour cherry and hints of strawberry give way to a delicate web of fine tannin. The 2015 finishes with pretty licorice and pomegranate nuances, leaving behind a lightly structured sensation. What a pretty expression of Pepe Montepulciano, one that grows in volume the longer it spends in the glass. I foresee very good things here.

95 POINTS VINOUS

Of note, the Pepe family was so happy with the balance of the 2015 that they decided to hold back 80% of the production for late release.    

Emidio Pepe established his own winery in 1964, in Torano, after working with his father and grandfather (making wine in Casa Pepe in 1889). Before anyone else, he firmly believes that Trebbiano and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo have great ageing potential. He devoted all his energy to these two native grape varieties, proving their incredible potential and showing it to the entire world. Since 1997, a new generation has arrived with Emidio's daughters, Sofia and Daniela who carry on the long qualitative tradition of the estate, based in particular on long breeding.

Pairing Suggestions: Red meats particularly beef and lamb, also Duck

Maturation: Oak aged