# Il Conte Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (2022)

- **Producer:** Nordic Sea Winery
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Montepulciano, Sangiovese
- **Region:** Abruzzo, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €8
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, red cherry, black plum, liquorice

## About this wine

Il Conte Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a red wine from the Abruzzo region of Italy, produced by Nordic Sea Winery. The wine is primarily made from the Montepulciano grape, with Sangiovese permitted as a secondary varietal. Nordic Sea Winery, founded in 2008, is known for its modern facilities and its practice of sourcing grapes globally, with final refinement and bottling occurring in Sweden. This approach allows for meticulous quality control throughout the winemaking process. The Abruzzo region, characterized by its varied terrain influenced by the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, provides a suitable climate for cultivating Montepulciano grapes.

## Interesting facts

- Nordic Sea Winery is based in Sweden, a non-traditional winemaking country.
- The winery controls the entire production process, from grape sourcing to bottling.
- Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is one of Italy's most widely planted red grape varieties.
- Nordic Sea Winery was named 'Beverage Producer of the Year' in Sweden in 2018.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and soft tannins make it versatile for a range of dishes. Its fruit-forward character complements savory meats, while its moderate acidity can cut through richer sauces and fats, creating a balanced dining experience.

## Wine making process

Il Conte Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is produced by Nordic Sea Winery, which sources grapes from the Abruzzo region of Italy. The winemaking process involves controlled fermentation, typically in stainless steel, to maintain the fruit's natural character. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a minimum aging period of 5 months as required by the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC regulations. The grapes are harvested in October, a time that allows for optimal ripeness. Nordic Sea Winery's distinctive approach includes the final refinement and bottling of the wine at their modern facility in Simrishamn, Sweden, a practice that allows them to oversee the entire production chain.