The 2008 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a terrific wine for the money. This is a mid-weight, feminine style of Montepulciano that emphasize freshness over concentration. Sweet red berries, spices, leather and licorice linger on the harmonious finish. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. Masciarelli is a reference point producer for rich, internationally styled wines from Abruzzo. Richness and ripeness are pushed to the extremes here, but when the estate is firing on all cylinders the wines are undeniably beautiful. Readers will have to accept less varietal typicity for the lushness these wines offer. Importer: Masciarelli Wine Company, Weymouth, MA; tel. (781) 335-6620

A round red, with notes of spice, black plum, dark cherry and tobacco pushing through to the finish. Drink now.??–NW??Region: Italy / Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Select to Add