(mon-te-pull-chay-AH-no)
Synonyms: Cordicso, Cordiscio, Cordisco, Cordisio, Monte Pulciano, Montepulciano Cordesco, Montepulciano di Torre de Passeri, Montepulciano Primatico, Morellone, Premutico, Primaticcio, Primutico, Sangiovese Cardisco, Sangiovese Cordisco, Sangiovetto, Torre dei Passeri, Uva Abruzzese and Uva Abruzzi
Wine Name: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Molise Rosso, Rosso Conero (a blend with up to 15% Sangiovese), Rosso Picento (a blend with 30-50% Sangiovese),
Background: This grape is predominantly grown in eastern Abruzzo, Marche, Molise, and Umbria regions of Italy. It is different than the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano grape from Tuscany. It is a low acid grape, with soft tannins. Flavors and aromas include blackberries, plums and spice. Some might consider the Montepulciano similar to Merlot wines.
Classic Brands and Sources: Cornacchia, Garofoli, Illuminati, Masciarelli, Moroder, Nicodemi, Saladini, Pilastri, Le Terrazze, Umani Ronchi
Characteristics:
| Style #1 – typical (Italian source)
Body – medium Acidity – medium (-) Sweetness – dry Tannins – medium |
Wine and food pairing guidelines:
A low acid wine that pairs well with savory dishes similar to pairings with Merlot
Foods and Entrees that usually pair:
Game, duck, lamb, sausages both savory and spiced, smoked ham, grilled and roasted meats especially with herbs, mushrooms, paella, cheese and tomato based pasta, root vegetables and beans
Cheese Pairings:
American, Colby, Mild cheddar, Velveeta, Double Glouchester (similar to mild cheddar), Fontina, Gouda, Mahon, Manchego, Monterey Jack, Roncal, Serena, Triple Creme, St André, Zamarano (Spanish sheep’s milk cheese), Brie and Camembert (without rinds)
See also Appetizers that pair with Merlot.