Masciarelli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Villa Gemma Riserva 2019

A still red from Abruzzo, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC Riserva Villa Gemma, 14.5% ABV, produced by Masciarelli. A Montepulciano that embodies the excellence of Abruzzo winemaking, the fruit of a long tradition and meticulous care at every stage of production. Aged in new French oak barrels for 18 months, then in bottle for at least 24 months. A broad bouquet of damask rose, black cherry (also preserved in alcohol), blackberry, blackcurrant, black tea, aromatic tobacco, bitter cocoa, and licorice, pervaded by wafts of wild balsamic, mineral accents, and a touch of animal blood. The energetic and rich palate, perfectly rounded by acidity, perfectly balances alcoholic vigor and characteristic tannic character, veering towards bitterness, tar, and a medicinal bitterness on the finish.