Wines

This Montepulciano has deep, rich plummy fruit tannins that are firm but soft. It pairs well with grilled and roast lamb; pasta with meatballs and hearty meat sauces; also delicious with aged pecorino cheeses.

91 Points! A focused, savory red that has aromas and flavors of mulberry, bay leaf, sage and black bean. It’s full-bodied, dark-fruited and balanced with medium-firm tannins. 85% montepulciano and 15% aglianico. - JamesSuckling.com

97 Points! Darkly alluring, the 2022 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Vecchie Vigne Casa Pepe opens with a perfumed bouquet, mixing wilted violets and wet stone with blackberries, dried cherries and incense. This is round and cool-toned in feel, with a supple wave of ripe red and blue fruits flowing across a core of vibrant acidity. The 2022 saturates the palate with primary concentration and a web of fine-grain tannins that wrap the senses in youthful poise. A tart twang of citrus-tinge black currants lingers on. The 2022 is embryonic, yet it displays an inner harmony that will guarantee a long and fruitful evolution. Bury this deep in the cellar. - Eric Guido, Vinous

93 Points! Focused with a slightly reductive style, featuring vibrant red and black fruit, subtle spices and perfume. Medium- to full-bodied, it’s firm, crunchy and angular, showing ripe, velvety tannins. Refreshing acidity, juicy and long. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com

93 Points! Vibrant from the first tilt of the glass, the 2021 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva Spelt is impossible to ignore. Blood orange and peppery rose complicate crushed blackberries and sage. This is silky smooth with an elegant wave of ripe red and blue fruits. Clove and dark chocolate notes add a pleasantly bitter tinge toward the close. The 2021 tapers off with fantastic length and a gentle tug of fine tannins, leaving a zesty wild berry concentration that adds youthful poise. This is a great example of oak integration (50% new) and how well it can work when applied properly. - Eric Guido, Vinous

92 Points! A flinty lift with crushed stones, graphite and new leather on top of the black cherries and a hint of mussels. Juicy, medium-bodied palate, delivering crunchy red berries. A fresh and drinkable expression of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, rounded by fine, gritty tannins. From organically grown grapes. Vegan. Drink now. - JamesSuckling.com

92 Points! A restrained wine that’s typical for this grape, with aromas of dark fruit, chocolate and graphite. Medium-bodied with crisp yet slightly lifted acidity and firm, chalky tannins that are well balanced in the finish. Drink or hold. - JamesSuckling.com