Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2015

The 2015 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Vecchie Vigne opens slowly in the glass. Coaxing reveals an elegant mix of fresh mint, red currant, roses and a dusting of spice. It washes across the palate with beautiful finesse, lifted and fresh, showing no sign of its warm vintage origins. Sour cherry and hints of strawberry give way to a delicate web of fine tannin. The 2015 finishes with pretty licorice and pomegranate nuances, leaving behind a lightly structured sensation. What a pretty expression of Pepe Montepulciano, one that grows in volume the longer it spends in the glass. I foresee very good things here. Of note, the Pepe family was so happy with the balance of the 2015 that they decided to hold back 80% of the production for late release.

Eric Guido, Vinous 95 Points