Montepulciano D'Abruzzo DON ROCCO 2019

Tenuta Tre Gemme DON ROCCO 2019 is an outstanding Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva from the family-owned Tenuta Tre Gemme estate in Abruzzo, central Italy. Produced from 100% Montepulciano, this prestigious red pays tribute to the estate's founder, Rocco Perrucci, affectionately known as Don Rocco.

The grapes originate from the estate's oldest vineyards, with vines approximately 40 years old, situated around 350 metres above sea level on limestone-clay soils. Low yields, careful grape selection and late hand harvesting allow the fruit to develop remarkable concentration, colour and structure. The vineyards benefit from the contrasting influences of the Adriatic Sea and the Gran Sasso mountains, contributing both ripeness and freshness.

The 2019 displays an intense ruby-red colour and a complex bouquet of ripe black cherries, morello cherries, blackberries and dark forest fruits, complemented by dark chocolate, tobacco, roasted coffee, liquorice, leather and subtle balsamic notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied, concentrated and richly textured, with generous dark fruit, well-integrated tannins, balanced acidity and a long, savoury finish.

The wine undergoes an unusually extensive maturation process. Following temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel, it spends 12 months in underground concrete tanks, allowing its fruit character and tannic structure to integrate gradually. This is followed by 24 months in French oak barriques and large Slavonian oak barrels, with another six months of bottle refinement before release.

The 2019 vintage offers an appealing combination of concentration, structure and developing complexity. Its expressive black-fruit character may be gaining additional nuances of dried cherries, tobacco, leather, cocoa and earthy spice, while its substantial maturation has contributed to a rounded, harmonious texture. The wine is enjoyable now but retains the structure and freshness for further bottle development.

An impressive Montepulciano Riserva – powerful yet refined, combining concentrated dark fruit, elegant oak influences and remarkable depth. An excellent choice for lovers of serious Italian reds, special dinners and further cellaring.

International Recognition – 2019 Vintage

92 Points – Wine Enthusiast

Gold Medal – MUNDUS VINI Spring Tasting 2024