Botteotto, Montepulciano D'abruzzo Kosher, 2018
Botteotto, Montepulciano D'abruzzo Kosher, 2018
- Red Still
- 75CL
- 13.5%
- Kosher
- Montepulciano
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Valle Reales vineyards are located in a national park known for its wild wolves. The barren nature and the harsh climate make the grapes from here extra rich in taste. This wine is certified organic.
Spicy, fruity scent with hints of barrels, cherries, plums, herbs and chocolate. Fruity and spicy taste with hints of chocolate, barrels, dark cherries, plums and sage. Pairs perfectly with tasty dishes of lamb or beef e.g. delicious lamb chops with garlic and rosemary.
This 2018 is drinking well now with primary fruit still dominant and tannins well-integrated. Over the next 2-3 years, the bright berry flavours will begin to develop secondary complexity with earthy and spice elements becoming more pronounced. The wine should maintain its freshness until 2030, after which the fruit may begin to fade whilst the tannins soften further.
What the critics say:
"This has a very intense nose of primary fruit, including brambleberry and dark-cherry compote and raspberry coulis. Shows good composure and density on the palate with medium-chewy tannins and a tangy finish. Drink now. "
Tasting Notes
AppearanceDeep ruby red with purple highlights at the rim.
NoseConcentrated dark berry fruit leads with brambleberry and dark cherry compote. Raspberry coulis adds brightness whilst subtle spice and herb undertones provide complexity. The fruit expression is primary and intense.
PalateMedium-bodied with good density and composure on the palate. The dark cherry and berry fruit carries through with medium-chewy tannins providing structure without overwhelming. A tangy quality adds freshness and balance to the concentrated fruit.
FinishClean and focused with lingering dark fruit and a refreshing acidic lift.
Overall impressionA well-made Montepulciano that delivers intensity and drinkability in equal measure.
Food Pairings
In Abruzzo, this style of Montepulciano traditionally accompanies arrosticini, the region's famous grilled lamb skewers seasoned with rosemary and coarse salt. Local families pair it with brodetto, the Adriatic fish stew laden with garlic and tomatoes, or hearty pasta dishes like maccheroni alla chitarra with wild boar ragù. The wine also complements pecorino cheese aged in the mountain caves of Gran Sasso, served alongside crusty bread and locally cured olives.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve at 16-18°C to allow the fruit character to express fully without masking the wine's natural freshness. Decanting for 30 minutes will help integrate the tannins and open the aromatics. Use a medium-sized Bordeaux glass to concentrate the fruit whilst allowing sufficient surface area for the wine to breathe.
The vineyards benefit from the Mediterranean influence typical of Abruzzo's coastal proximity, with warm days and cooling evening breezes. The region's limestone-rich soils provide excellent drainage whilst retaining sufficient moisture for the vines. These conditions allow Montepulciano grapes to develop concentrated fruit flavours whilst maintaining natural acidity, creating wines with both power and balance.
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo represents one of Italy's most reliable and food-friendly red wine appellations. The DOC requires 100% Montepulciano grapes and produces wines known for their approachable character and moderate tannins. Unlike the more structured Tuscan wines, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo tends toward immediate drinkability whilst offering enough substance for modest cellaring.
The 2018 growing season in Abruzzo delivered the kind of conditions that remind us why this region has quietly built such a strong reputation. A warm, dry summer with well-timed rainfall allowed the vines to ripen steadily without the stress that can compromise quality. The harvest proceeded smoothly, with growers able to pick at optimal ripeness levels across the region's varied elevations, from the coastal plains to the foothills of the Apennines.
This vintage produced wines of genuine substance and character. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo shows excellent concentration with the variety's signature dark fruit intensity balanced by fresh acidity, whilst Trebbiano d'Abruzzo displays the crisp minerality that makes the best examples so food-friendly. The quality is notably consistent across producers, suggesting favourable conditions throughout the region. These wines are drinking beautifully now, offering immediate pleasure, though the better Montepulciano examples will continue to develop gracefully over the next five to eight years.
FAQs
What makes this wine kosher?
Kosher wine production requires rabbinical supervision throughout the entire process, from grape growing to bottling. Only observant Jewish individuals may handle the wine during production, and all equipment must be kosher-certified. The winemaking follows traditional methods whilst adhering to these religious requirements.
How does kosher certification affect the wine's taste?
Kosher certification primarily affects the production process rather than the final flavour. The wine maintains the typical characteristics of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, with concentrated fruit and balanced tannins. The religious requirements do not compromise the wine's quality or traditional Italian character.
Should I decant this wine?
Decanting for 30 minutes will help open the aromatics and integrate the medium tannins. Whilst not essential, decanting enhances the wine's expression and allows the dark fruit flavours to show more clearly.
What food works best with this wine?
The wine's medium body and balanced tannins make it ideal for grilled lamb, beef dishes, and hearty pasta with meat sauce. Traditional pairings include lamb chops with rosemary, beef stew, or aged Italian cheeses.
How long will this wine keep?
The 2018 vintage is drinking well now and will continue to develop until around 2030. Store in a cool, dark place at consistent temperature. Once opened, the wine will maintain quality for 2-3 days with proper re-corking.
Is this wine suitable for vegetarians?
Kosher wine production typically uses traditional fining agents that may include animal products. Check with the producer for specific clarification methods if strict vegetarian requirements apply.
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