# Cirelli Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (2024)

- **Producer:** Azienda Agricola Cirelli
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Montepulciano
- **Region:** Abruzzo, Italy
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, blackberry, violet

## About this wine

Founded in 2003 by Francesco and Michela Cirelli, Azienda Agricola Cirelli spans 22 hectares near Atri in Abruzzo, operating as a diverse organic farm ecosystem with vineyards, olive groves, and livestock. Crafted in harmony with nature, this classic Montepulciano d'Abruzzo emphasizes drinkability and terroir-driven energy, standing in contrast to heavy, heavily oaked regional styles.

## Interesting facts

- Yields are restricted to 40-45 quintals per hectare, less than a third of the regional DOC limit.
- The 22-hectare estate operates as a biodynamic-inspired ecosystem with grazing animals and olive trees.
- Aged entirely in stainless steel without oak contact to preserve vibrant red fruit purity and crisp acidity.

## Food pairing

The lively acidity and soft tannins of this stainless-steel aged Montepulciano cut effortlessly through rich fats, tomato acidity, and charred grilled meat flavors.

## Wine making process

Harvested manually from low-yielding organic vines, 100% destemmed Montepulciano grapes undergo spontaneous alcoholic fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks. Maceration lasts 7 to 15 days with gentle pressing to avoid harsh tannins. The wine ages on fine lees in neutral stainless steel for six months followed by one month of bottle refinement before release.