Riserva Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (1991)

About this wine

This 1991 Riserva Montepulciano d'Abruzzo from Duchi di Castelluccio presents a deep ruby red color, now showing garnet hues due to its extended aging. On the nose, it offers aromas of mature red fruits like cherries and plums, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla, cocoa, and a hint of leather. The palate is full-bodied and well-structured, with softened tannins that provide a velvety texture. Flavors of dried berries and a touch of spice lead to a long, satisfying finish. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wines are known for their aging potential, and this 1991 vintage exemplifies how time can enhance their complexity and depth.

About the grape

Montepulciano is a red grape variety that has been cultivated in Italy for centuries, particularly thriving in the Abruzzo region. Known for its late ripening, this grape benefits from the unique climate of Abruzzo, where the proximity of the Apennine mountains to the Adriatic Sea creates ideal conditions for its growth. The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC, established in 1968, requires that wines be made with at least 85% Montepulciano grapes, allowing up to 15% Sangiovese. Wines labeled as 'Riserva' must be aged for a minimum of two years, including at least nine months in wooden barrels. The 1991 Duchi di Castelluccio Riserva Montepulciano d'Abruzzo exemplifies the rich history and tradition of this grape in the region.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1991 Riserva Montepulciano d'Abruzzo from Duchi di Castelluccio is crafted exclusively from Montepulciano grapes, a varietal indigenous to the Abruzzo region of Italy.
• 🛢️ This wine underwent a mandatory aging period of at least two years, including a minimum of nine months in wooden barrels, enhancing its complexity and depth.
• 🍷 The 1991 vintage is notable for its deep ruby red color with garnet reflections, a characteristic that develops with aging.
• 🌱 Duchi di Castelluccio has been producing certified organic wines since 1990, ensuring that the 1991 Riserva was among their early organic vintages.
• 🏅 The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC was established in 1968, and by 1991, it had gained recognition for producing high-quality wines with rich flavors and aging potential.

Palate profile

Producer

Duchi di Castelluccio, established in 1971 in the Casauria region of Abruzzo, Italy, has a winemaking heritage dating back to 1889. In 1990, the winery transitioned to organic viticulture, eliminating harmful chemicals, and by 2015, it achieved BioVegan certification by removing all animal-derived products from its winemaking process. The winery's commitment to sustainability and quality has been recognized with multiple awards at Vinitaly from 2020 to 2023. Visitors can experience guided tours and tastings, immersing themselves in the authentic flavors of the Casauria region.