Masciarelli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo

Azienda Agricola Masciarelli operates 13 estates across Abruzzo totaling about 300 hectares with lots of Montepulciano vines, plus other varietals such as Trebbiano, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cococciola and one hectare of Falaghina.  They also have olive groves on many of their estates and are well known for their olive oil sold under the Cvetic name.

The estate was founded by Gianni Masciarelli in 1981 and they’ve established quite a presence in Abruzzo in less than 30 years.  With many wine producers in the area having vineyards that were passed down from one generation to the next, this is a relatively young producer.

I found the 2003 vintage on shelves in my area and I was a bit surprised that I wasn’t finding a more recent vintage but I was glad to give this one a shot.  This is another wine that is a nice marriage of old and new world styles.  It has a few characteristics that make it a bit dirty and interesting in an old world way, but enough fruit to appeal to fans of new world wines.  It has a slightly smokey and dusty nose with dark berries and leather.  There is very good concentration in the palate.  Cherries, blackberries and chocolate all have a strong presence. There is a lot of fruit, but the fruit is a touch young tasting—keeping this wine very dry.  It has a medium length finish with smooth tannis and a hint of chocolate.

I found this for $8.99 and it is an excellent wine for that price.  I gave it an 87.

Wine: Masciarelli
Varietal: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
Vintage: 2003
Alcohol: 13% 
Rating: 87
Price Paid: $8.99