Olivastri Tommaso Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC "La Grondaia" 2018

Wine Type:
Style of Wine:	Earthy & Spicy
Country of Origin:	Italy
Grape Varietal:	Montepulciano
Bottle Format:	750mL
Case Size:	6 bottles
$214.80 Per Case ($35.80/btl)

Tasting Notes

This family-run estate is in Abruzzo, in the heart of the historic Costa dei Trabocchi, south of Pescara. The winery began in 2000, when Tommaso decided to put to fruition the passion and knowledge he learned from the two generations of wine-growers who preceded him: his father Antonio and grandfather Tommaso.

They owns 15 hectares of vineyards between the hills and the sea, close to the town of San Vito Chietino. The area provides a complex combination of soils and microclimates that give rise to grapes and wines of unique identity and high quality. The family follows closely the full production cycle from vineyards to bottle, the concept that “good wine is made in the vineyard” guides all decisions. Vinified grapes are the result of patient care and careful research, and cultivation respects methods and times of nature. In the cellar, further care is taken to enhance the identity of each grape variety and to produce genuine wines that express what nature provides and respects the traditions of Abruzzo wines.

Made from 100% Montepulciano grapes, hand-harvested in late October from low-yield vineyards on the Marcantonio estate planted 127 metres a.s.l.. With the Adriatic Sea to the east, and protected by the Majella mountain to the west, these vineyards are planted in calcareous-clay soil and ripen under the dry sun of the hills. Combined, this allows for rich mineral aromatics and complex structure to develop naturally in the grapes. Montepulciano is widely planted along the Adriatic coast, but it is most well known in the region of Abruzzo.

Traditional red wine vinification - following crushing and destemming, the grapes are kept on the skins for 15-20 days to extract colour and flavour. A soft pressing follows, and fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks. The wine is aged in stainless-steel tanks for 36 months, and rests in bottle for six more months.

Our tasting note: Deep ruby red colour with purple tinges. Complex aromas and flavours of cherry and plum with spicy notes of pepper, licorice, and dried herbs. Dry, medium- to full-bodied, balanced tannins, good acidity, and an elegant finish.

Food matches: Pair with grilled/roast meats (beef, lamb, veal, pork), pasta with ragù, spicy/earthy vegetarian dishes, and aged cheeses.

Critical Praise