Abruzzo is an Italian region located along the Adriatic Sea. It has four provinces (Chieti, L'Aquila, Pescara and Teramo) and yet is one of the least populated regions with Marché to the North and Lazio to the west. It's a rugged, mountainous terrain which helps to isolate the region from the winemaking influence of the ancient Romans and Tuscan Etruscans! It is actually the biggest nature area in all of Europe with one third of Abruzzo set aside for National Parks.
Today, more than 42million cases of wine a year are made in Abruzzo. It is the fifth largest wine producing region in Italy and the bulk of production is done in the Chieti province. Together with Trebbiano d'Abruzzo (white), Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (red) is one of the most widely exported DOC wines from Italy yet only 21.5% of wines are made under the DOC appellation. A rosé known as Cerasuolo which is made from Montepulciano grapes is also made in the capital city of L'Aquila. In 2009, the city of L'Aquila was badly damaged in an earthquake which the city is still recovering from.
What to do in Abruzzo?
As it is so mountainous, Abruzzo is perfect for people who enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding and snow rafting. It is perfect for people who like Climbing and hiking through National Parks and Medieval Hill Villages. There are plenty of olive groves, vineyards and old farms. As it is also on the coast, the summer brings in people who enjoy water spots (and don't forget working on the tan). There is also a noisy and rich nightlife during the summer.
About the Wine - Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC has an intense red colour, a fruity flavour with hints of red fruits. A typical characteristic is the liquorice bouquet. Enjoy this wine with roasts, meat and aged cheese.