Villa Gemma
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2018
Abruzzo
Villa Gemma Montepulciano Riserva is the wine that put Abruzzo on the map, becoming the iconic benchmark for the region’s potential. In 2000, this wine was awarded “Best Wine in Italy” by Gambero Rosso, marking the first time a Montepulciano had received this distinction, and it has also earned 14 consecutive Tre Bicchieri awards. Villa Gemma showcases the extraordinary depth and complexity of Montepulciano from this area. Rich, ripe fruit is complemented by layers of black and dried fruits, spices, and mineral notes. In a word, this wine is legendary.
VINEYARD
The fruit for this wine comes from Colle Cave, a steep hillside vineyard in Chieti with deep roots in the Masciarelli family story. It was here that Gianni's grandfather first made wine in 1930, and the site remains one of the estate's most storied. The soils are a mix of limestone, clay, and gravel, and unlike much of Abruzzo, the traditional pergola training system gives way here to French Guyot, a deliberate choice that reflects the vineyard's singular character and Gianni's pioneering approach to the region.
WINEMAKING
A mixture of tradition and innovation is employed for the Villa Gemma Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. First, the must is macerated and fermented in 3-5,000L botti before being transferred to new French barriques for 18-24 months and another 24- 36 months in bottle before release.
VINTAGE
A generous rebound from the drought-stricken 2017, the 2018 season brought copious rain through early July, creating significant mildew pressure and demanding vigilant vineyard management. The second half delivered, with warm, dry conditions allowing Montepulciano to ripen fully and evenly. The resulting reds are powerful and concentrated, among the most impressive of the decade.
TASTING NOTE
A deep ruby red with purple reflections, with bouquets of intense and persistent ripe red fruits on the nose. Spices, black pepper, cocoa, licorice and dried fruits on the palate.
FOOD PAIRING
Smoked andouille, beef ragù, lasagna
Color
Red
Blend %
100% Montepulciano
Appellation
Abruzzo
Alcohol
15%
Suggested Retail Price
$98
Reviews
James Suckling - July 29, 2023 "This is really dark, earthy and tarry on the nose with smoky plums, blackberries, roasted spices and cedar. Some wild mushrooms, too. Full-bodied and broad-shouldered on the palate with waves of very fine but densely packed tannins. Structured and velvety and very long."
Wine Enthusiast -
Wine Spectator -
Reviews
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Abruzzo Bianco
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While the Villa Gemma Montepulciano was the wine that announced Abruzzo to the world, the Bianco, created just a year later, further defined what the region and grapes of Abruzzo could produce. This wine, first released in 1985, speaks to the white grape varieties specific to the region and has become on of the most exciting wines produced at the estate.
Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo
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Perhaps the finest rosé production area in Italy, and one of the few appellations dedicated only to rosé, Cerasuolo has a long history of producing serious rosé, and showcasing how well the Montepulciano grape is adapted to rosé. Masciarelli first produced this wine in 1986, only 5 years after the winery was founded. With deep fruit and structure but no shortage of pleasure, it is a rosé you can take to the dinner table.
