29 May Please The Palate Wine of the Week: 2021 Febo Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC

When asked what the most popular grape in Italy is, most people will answer “Sangiovese”, but the Montepulciano grape is the second most planted red grape and one to know. Montepulciano tends to dominate the more mountainous and warmer eastern and southern portions of the Italian peninsula, especially in Abruzzo. It is dark and inky, yet is easy-drinking and enjoyable. That is why the 2021 Febo Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC is the Please The Palate wine of the week.

About

Febo is a family winery located near to the Adriatic coastline in Eastern Italy. Davide and Laura Febo’s grandfather planted their first Montepulciano grapes. When he passed away, Davide left his law studies to take over the farm with his sister Laura. Together, they have grown the Febo winery and family business. Febo blends tradition and innovation and the wines are farmed and made organically, using native yeast fermentation, and are unfiltered. “The goal of the winery is to produce wines that are a clear expression of the territory and of the passion for viticulture.”

Tasting Notes

The Febo Montepulciano comes from two different organic and bio-dynamic vineyards in the grape’s ancestral home of Abruzzo. The 100% Montepulciano is fermented and aged in concrete tanks once owned by the winemaker’s grandparents. The wine is an inky color. It is rich with floral, dark fruit, licorice, and earthy notes. The wine has has a savory, meaty nose. The wine has textured tannins and a slightly bitter finish. This is a wine “of place” and is an example of classic Montepulciano from Abruzzo.

Food Pairing

I enjoyed this wine on two occasions! I paired it with pizza, which was a great pairing. I also enjoyed it with Parmesan and Old Amsterdam cheeses. I loved the wine with the Old Amsterdam, with its robust savory flavor, crunchy crystals, creamy and smooth texture, and a hint of sweetness.

Where To Purchase

The 2021 Febo Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC retails for $25.99 and is available directly from its importer, VeroVino Craft Wines.