Francesco Cirelli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Abruzzo, Italy 2022

Francesco Cirelli is a leading voice in Abruzzo’s natural wine movement, farming organically and biodynamically on his coastal estate near Atri. His approach is rooted in simplicity: respect for the land, minimal intervention in the cellar, and allowing Montepulciano to express its purest form. This cuvée is his classic bottling—bright, savory, and energetic, showing the variety’s natural depth without weight or heaviness.

WINEMAKER: Francesco Cirelli

FARMING: Certified Organic; practicing Biodynamic

VARIETY: 100% Montepulciano

TERROIR: Sourced from estate vineyards near the Adriatic coast, where clay-limestone soils and cooling marine breezes help preserve acidity in this typically generous grape. The moderate elevation of the Atri hills adds lift and freshness to the fruit profile.

VINIFICATION: Hand harvested, de-stemmed and fermented on its skins for 10-15 days at 25-30 degrees Celsius.

AGING: Aged in stainless steel up to 6 months on fine lees before bottling.

TASTING NOTES: Medium-bodied and expressive, showing dark cherry, plum, and blackberry alongside savory herbs, subtle earth, and a touch of spice. The palate is fresh and smooth with lively acidity, soft tannins, and a clean, balanced finish—classic, uncomplicated Montepulciano with beautiful drinkability.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with pizza, pasta all’Amatriciana, grilled sausages, roasted vegetables, or simple weeknight red-sauce dishes.