This label pulls no punches: from the moment you open the bottle, you know you are dealing with a reserve wine that aims to impress. Cocciapazza, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC from Torre dei Beati, comes from Loreto Aprutino, in the heart of Abruzzo, about 250-300 metres above sea level. Here, on clayey-calcareous soils, the vineyards enjoy an ideal microclimate: during the day, sea breezes mitigate the heat, while at night, cool air descends from the 3,000 metres of the Gran Sasso, ensuring a beneficial temperature range that promotes slow ripening and intense aromas. The name “Cocciapazza” is the old name of the vineyard: a strong reference to the winery's local roots. 100% Montepulciano, selected from vines over 40 years old, trained using the Abruzzo pergola method and vinified only in the best exposed areas, the grapes are harvested manually in three stages to select only the best grapes. Fermentation in steel with cold pre-maceration, followed by a long maceration of about 30 days on the skins, followed by ageing for 20-22 months in barriques (70% new). The result? An intense ruby red colour with violet reflections when young. The nose reveals pronounced notes of ripe red fruit, such as plum and black cherry, followed by currant and blueberry, enhanced by spices such as black pepper and liquorice, chocolate and tobacco, with a balsamic hint on the finish. Full, warm and enveloping on the palate. The tannins are silky, with good acidity and structure. Long and persistent finish. Excellent with rich red meats: roasts, grilled meats, game and stews. Also perfect with mature cheeses.