Marisa Finetti

The Region is Rich with Tradition and Infused with Innovation Wine lovers have always celebrated legendary winemaking regions of the world, but discriminating oenophiles know that hidden gems are discovered off the beaten tasting path. The mountainous coastal region of Abruzzo in central Italy, located along the Adriatic Sea, is one such wine destination. It is Wine Enthusiast‘s Region of the Year for reasons that outnumber the surprises it offers—from its unspoiled villages to its stunning natural landscapes, filled with waterfalls, rivers and historic castles. The celebrated wine region is also fast becoming an ambitious destination of slow travel, emphasizing a sustainable connection to local culture, people, gastronomy and music. One of the oldest wine-growing regions, Abruzzo is located a scenic two-hour drive east of Rome. Unique microclimates sprawl throughout the 36,000 hectares of vineyards growing between the mountains and the sea. "Large temperature swings between day and night combined with good ventilation, ideal rainfall and excellent sunshine give life to very high-quality production," says Davide Acerra, marketing manager of the Consorzio di Tutela Vini d’Abruzzo. The wines of Abruzzo do their own storytelling via the local grapes that express their characteristics and sense of place: the famous and powerful red wines of the Montepulciano; the great white wines from Trebbiano Abruzzese; and, of course, the crushable Montepulciano-driven rosato, Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo. But Abruzzo has even more. "Pecorino represents the white wine of the future, a wine that gives structure, acidity and a truly important olfactory spectrum, like all wines of great longevity," says Acerra. Abruzzo is also starting to focus on sparkling wines and nurturing lesser-known indigenous grapes such as Cococciola, Passerina, and Montonico Bianco. Further, Abruzzo has, over the years, made great strides in terms of qualitative growth, spearheaded, in part, by the attitude of a new generation of winemakers. "Many new wineries have sprung up, often started by young people who have invested in the land or have inherited the family business. They have a more open mind, a different vision than their parents, certainly more sustainable, greener and a much more dynamic entrepreneurial capacity," says Acerra. "Even in the historical wineries, a new generation has emerged that has changed style and philosophy." Agricultural and pastoral tradition infused with innovation, natural beauty and the remarkable variety and abundance of wines produced from uncontaminated mountain areas makes Abruzzo a well-loved region. You’re Invited: 2022 Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Award Winners will be honored in person at The Westin St. Francis on Union Square, San Francisco, CA For event inquires or to attend, please contact Abigail Turrisi, Events & PR Coordinator, aturrisi@wineenthusiast.net