Another wine endowed with superb purity, the 2009 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Cocciapazza bursts from the glass with juicy, black cherries, licorice, incense, spices and tobacco. This is a decidedly richer and plusher wine than the Mazzamarello, and the tannins are firmer, but it is just as compelling, if no more so. Ideally the Cocciapazza needs another 6-12 months for the tannins to integrate a bit more, but it sure is impressive, even today. This is decidedly a virile style that stands apart from the more feminine, sensual Mazzamarello. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.
Importer: Artisan Wine, Norwalk, CT; tel. (203) 866-4552