If you’re on the Cheeky Vino I can guess that you’ve heard of Sangiovese before, but what about Montepulciano? Well, if you haven’t, allow me to introduce you to yet another amazing Italian thing. Montepulciano is the 2nd most planted red grape in Italy after our good friend Sangiovese. What once was renowned for being a fun and cheap pizza wine is making waves for showing its potential for inky, black-fruit driven and chocolatey wines with great aging potential. In this Montepulciano wine guide, we dive into everything you need to know about this awesome Italian grape.
Montepulciano wine guide
- Name: Montepulciano
- Pronounced: Mohn-Teh-Pool-Chah-Nooh
- Type of wine: Red wine
- Body: Medium-High
- Tannin: Medium-High
- Acidity: Medium-High
- Flavours: Plum, Cherry, Boysenberry, Herb
- Pairs with: roasted meat, beef tacos, ragu
Montepulciano, or Monte as it has become affectionately known in Australia (because we love a nickname), is popular for a reason. And the great thing about this grape is that there is such a wide range. Whether you want a cheap and cheerful takeout wine or something more special, you can find it in this awesome grape. Its medium body, tannin and acidity make it a perfect pairing for food and also mean it doesn’t overwhelm you with flavours. Some might say it is just right.
Origin of Montepulciano
Montepulciano hails from the Tuscan hilltop town of Montepulciano and is mostly grown in central Italy, particularly in the area of Abruzzo. It is also grown in the areas of Molise, Marche, Lazio and Puglia. Montepulciano is suitable to warm climates due to its thick skin and late ripening, so thrives in the Tuscan climate.
This grape can be confusing because there are two different wines with similar names. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is made using the Montepulciano grape. But Vino Nobile de Montepulciano is actually made using Sangiovese, and is named after the town.
In Australia even 10 years ago Montepulciano wasn’t well known. However, since 2017 it has been gaining popularity. Two Australian producers were awarded gold medals for their Montepulciano at the International Wine Challenge. This was the first time non-Italian grapes took home the award. So it is safe to say we’re making waves!
Flavour profile of Montepulciano
Montepulciano mostly produces wines with a medium body, medium tannins, medium-high acidity and juicy fruit flavours. These fruit flavours include cherry, blackberry, boysenberry and plum. Alongside these flavours, you might find notes of dried herbs.
There are two styles of Montepulciano. Those that are lighter and more affordable are great midweek food wines. Expect plenty of juicy fruits on the palate along with subtle notes of dried herbs. These wines tend to be lighter due to less skin contact.
For the oak-aged Montepulciano, you will find richer flavours. The fruit and tannins will be more pronounced, and you’ll get notes of cocoa, vanilla and mocha. These wines can be aged and should be enjoyed after about four or so years of age. They do carry a higher price tag, however. Expect to pay anywhere between $30-$80.
Where you’ll find Montepulciano
It wouldn’t be a Montepulciano wine guide without telling you where to find the best to try! If you are looking for Montepulciano from Italy, make sure you understand the Italian wine laws to know what to look for (learn more about these here). There are plenty of options to try when it comes to Italian Montepulciano, but below are some of the most popular:
- Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC: These are the most famous of the Montepulciano from Italy, and must have at least 85% Montepulciano and up to 15% Sangiovese.
- Riserva: This denotes that the wine has been aged for at least three years with at least six months of aging in oak barrels.
- Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo: Cerasuolo translates to “cherry”, and this rosé offers a deeply hued alternative to Provence wines.
If you’re looking for Australian Montepulciano (or Monte), South Australia is what put it on the map. Think Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley and Riverland. This is because it ripens so late, as well as being disease-resistant, making it a perfect match to our warm climate.
What to pair with Montepulciano
Montepulciano is the perfect pairing to food whether you feel like something simple or more complex. Pizza and pasta is a classic pairing for this wine, especially ragus with meat. Pepperoni pizza is a perfect pairing as well!
If you’re looking for something else to pair this wine with, savoury and hearty meat dishes are perfect. The wine’s tannic quality and acidity cut through fats beautifully. Think brisket, meatloaf, beef tacos, as well as any dish with a rich tomato or cheese-based sauce.
If you aren’t a meat-eater, this wine also goes well with hearty vegetables. Think mushrooms, baked potatoes and roasted tomatoes.
With so many options it is easy to see why this wine is a great option for your next meal!
Summary: Montepulciano wine guide
I hope this Montepulciano wine guide has helped to introduce you to this incredible Italian grape! Next time you’re looking for a wine to enjoy with dinner, why not try out this popular Italian variety? It is sure to pair beautifully, and with its affordable price point, you can certainly enjoy it with a pepperoni pizza on the couch!