Caroso Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (1987)

About this wine

The 1985 Caroso Montepulciano d'Abruzzo from Codice Citra presents a deep ruby color with garnet hues, indicative of its maturity. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet of dried mulberries, sour cherries, and subtle balsamic notes, intertwined with hints of spice and licorice. The palate is elegant, showcasing a rich tannic structure that has softened over time, leading to a harmonious balance. This wine reflects the traditional winemaking practices of the Abruzzo region, where Montepulciano grapes are known for producing robust and age-worthy wines. The 1985 vintage, in particular, stands as a testament to the longevity and depth that Montepulciano d'Abruzzo can achieve.

About the grape

Montepulciano is a red grape variety primarily grown in the Abruzzo region of Italy. It is known for producing deeply colored wines with moderate acidity and noticeable extract and alcohol levels. The grape is widely planted throughout central and southern Italy, most notably in Abruzzo, Lazio, Marche, Molise, Umbria, and Apulia. Montepulciano is rarely found in northern Italy because the grape has a tendency to ripen late and can be excessively "green" if harvested too early. When fully ripened, Montepulciano can produce deeply colored wines, with moderate acidity and noticeable extract and alcohol levels.

Quick facts

• 💎 The name 'Caroso' is derived from the Italian word 'caro,' meaning 'precious,' reflecting the wine's esteemed status in the Abruzzo region.
• 🤝 Codice Citra, the producer of Caroso, is a cooperative founded in 1973, uniting nine wineries and approximately 3,000 families of winegrowers in the Chieti province of Abruzzo.
• 🍷 The 1985 vintage of Caroso Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a rare find today, representing a piece of Italian winemaking history from a region celebrated for its robust red wines.
• 🍇 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, the grape variety used in Caroso, is known for producing deeply colored wines with robust tannins and structure, making them suitable for aging.
• 🌊⛰️ The Abruzzo region, where Caroso is produced, benefits from a unique microclimate influenced by the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains, contributing to the distinctive character of its wines.

Palate profile

Producer

Codice Citra, established in 1973, is a prominent cooperative winery in the Abruzzo region of Italy, uniting nine local winegrowers' associations. The name 'Citra' is derived from a Latin term referring to one of the two principalities into which Abruzzo was historically divided, highlighting the winery's deep connection to its territory. With approximately 3,000 member families cultivating around 6,000 hectares of vineyards, Codice Citra has become one of Italy's major wine producers, blending traditional practices with modern innovations. The winery is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability, producing a diverse range of wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Chieti province.