The Abruzzo region on Italys Adriatic coast has with its Montepulciano grapevariety the potential for creating one of Italys great wines. A chunky, chewy redwith lashings of dense fruit, backed up by full, but soft tannins and a long finish.

This private winery was established in 2001 to realise the true potential of Abruzzo's vine-yards, especially the under-rated Montepulciano grape. The winemaker, Lucio Matricardi previously worked at top estates in Tuscany and brings with him into this young team a blend of modern expertise and tradition.

There is always an initial confusion between the Montepulciano the grape and Montepulciano the Tuscan town. This is the grape. Although it has given its name to the major DOC for the region of Abruzzo the Montepulciano grape is cultivated extensively throughout the southern half of Italy and features in many blends. Montepulciano is a late maturing grape and prefers the warmth and sun of the south. Talamonti is a relatively new winery founded in 2001 by the Di Tonno family. After many years as grape growers they decided to make their own wines.

Area: Select vineyards located near the village of Loreto Aprutino inland from the city of Pescara.
Av. age vines: Between 8 and 13 years old
Vine density: 2,500 per ha.
Training System: Tendone
Yield: 75 hl/ha.
Harvest: Mid October for about 10 days
Vinification: A 10 day temperature controlled fermentation on the skins in stainless steel vats at between 25 and 270C. There is also a full malolactic fermentation.
Ageing: Aged for 6 months in French oak casks of 34hl.