Collefrisio Semis Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2016

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. It is recommended to decant it for half an hour. The dynamic and popular Collefrisio winery was established in Abruzzo in 2004, thanks to the initiative of Amedeo De Luca and Antonio Patricelli. The company vineyards today extend over approximately 55 hectares and the winery, or Casa del Vino, was built in 2005 in the middle of the vineyards of the main estate. The Montepulciano d'Abruzzo grapes are harvested late at the beginning of November from selected vineyards. After vinification and a long maceration on the skins, the finished wine rests first in barrique for 2 years and then for a further 12 months in the bottle. The result is a robust and characterful wine that best expresses the typicality of the grape variety. In the glass, Semis Montepulciano d'Abruzzo takes on an intense and deep color with hazelnut tones and reflections between purple and bluish. Its aromatic profile is broad and complex with fruity notes of blackberry and cherry, typical of the grape variety, followed by peppery and undergrowth hints. On the palate, it has a good structure, great concentration, and a firm tannic texture. It is soft and velvety, rich and vigorous. The finish is long and persistent and recalls delicate earthy and licorice notes. Try it with a fillet of March with pepper or roast lamb with herbs.

Price: £22.44 from 8wines UK