Jasci Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2021

Jasci is a family winery in the municipality of Vasto, in Abruzzo, on the Adriatic coast of central Italy. Sebastiano Jasci converted the whole estate to organic farming to reflect the fertility of the old vineyard soils. This is a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, the region's signature red grape, not to be confused with the Tuscan town of the same name. Abruzzo runs from the Apennine mountains down to the sea, and Montepulciano ripens fully in the warm coastal climate while cool air off the mountains and a wide day-to-night temperature range keep the fruit fresh and the colour deep. Organic farming supports healthy soils and even ripening. The wine ages six months in oak, a short spell that rounds the tannins and adds light spice while keeping the emphasis on ripe fruit. The colour is deep, almost opaque ruby. The nose shows ripe plum, dark cherry and blackberry, with a peppery, lightly spiced edge. The palate is full bodied and juicy, with round tannins, fresh acidity, a note of liquorice and a warm, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, in a standard red glass. It suits tomato-based dishes and grilled meats.