De Fermo Concrete Rosso 2023

De Fermo, the Abruzzo estate of Stefano Papetti Ceroni, farms biodynamically and makes Concrete Rosso as a pure, unoaked expression of Montepulciano. Abruzzo lies between the Apennine mountains and the Adriatic, and the cooling mountain air gives fresh, aromatic reds when the grape is handled for brightness rather than power. The wine is fermented and aged eight months in concrete tanks, a neutral material that allows a little micro-oxygenation to soften the wine while adding no wood flavour, keeping the fruit clear and the texture supple. At 13 percent it is medium-light and built for early drinking. The colour is a vivid, fresh red. The nose shows strawberry and red cherry with a herbal, almost wild scrub note and a touch of black pepper. The palate is juicy and direct, with bright acidity, soft tannins, a hint of darker plum and a clean, savoury finish. Serve at 15 degrees, lightly chilled if you prefer. Its freshness and acidity make it a natural with tomato-based dishes, charcuterie and lighter meats.