# Colle Reale Rosso (2021)

- **Producer:** Valle Reale
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Montepulciano
- **Region:** Abruzzo, Italy
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €12
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, dried herbs, blueberry, blackberry, liquorice, black cherry, coffee, vanilla

## About this wine

Colle Reale Rosso is a 100% Montepulciano wine from the Terre di Chieti IGT in Abruzzo, Italy. Produced by Valle Reale, a winery established in 1999 by Leonardo Pizzolo, it originates from vineyards situated in a mountainous national park between the Gran Sasso and Majella mountains. The estate's altitude, ranging from 150 to 350 meters, coupled with its limestone-rich, rocky soils and significant diurnal temperature variations, contributes to the wine's distinct character. Valle Reale is committed to organic and biodynamic farming and minimal intervention winemaking, aiming to express the purity of the Montepulciano grape and the unique terroir of its mountain vineyards.

## Interesting facts

- Grapes are grown between 150-350 meters above sea level.
- The winery is located within an Italian national park.
- Uses indigenous yeasts for spontaneous fermentation.
- Embraces organic and biodynamic viticulture.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and smooth tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like lamb and pork. Its fresh acidity can cut through fattier dishes, while the dark fruit notes can echo or contrast with savory elements in the food.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Colle Reale Rosso begins with destemming and pressing the 100% Montepulciano grapes. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, utilizing indigenous yeasts. Following fermentation, the majority of the wine is aged in stainless steel. A smaller portion, around 10%, is aged for 12 months in old oak barrels. The winery practices organic viticulture and is sustainability certified, with grapes harvested at optimal ripeness from vineyards located at altitudes between 150 to 350 meters.