Montepulciano is the 2nd most planted red grape in Italy (after Sangiovese) and has had a reputation for low-priced juicy “pizza-friendly” red wines. Fortunately, there are several producers in Abruzzo that have shown the amazing potential of this grape by producing inky, black-fruit driven, chocolatey wines best enjoyed after 4 or more years of aging.

Montepulciano will cut through some of the meatiest meats (like beef brisket) and pair nicely alongside rich, roasted winter vegetables. If you learn only one tip about pairing with Montepulciano, it is to match it with something with substance (fat).

Examples

Meat

Roasted Pork Shoulder, Beef Burgers with Mushrooms, Beef Bolognese, Barbecued Beef Brisket, Beef Tacos, Filipino Beef Adobo, Braised Goat, Shepard’s Pie, Meatloaf, Meat Lover’s Pizza

Cheese

Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Aged Cheddar, Parmesan, Asiago, Pepper Jack

Herb/Spice

Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary, Sage, Coriander, Black Pepper, Cumin, Caraway, Chipotle, Cocoa, Coffee, Balsamic

Vegetable

Stuffed Baked Potato, Southern-style Collard Greens, Black Bean Burgers, Roasted Mushrooms, Pinto Beans, Wild Rice, Winter Beets, Winter Farro, Sunchokes