Praesidium by Famiglia Pasquale Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva 2019

Praesidium by Famiglia Pasquale is a standout Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva from the 2019 vintage, made with care and tradition in the rugged hills of Prezza, in the Abruzzo region. The Pasquale family farms organically and harvests everything by hand from old pergola-trained vines set on steep slopes. The wine sees a long maceration and is aged in large old oak casks for at least three years, followed by extended bottle ageing before release.

In the glass, it’s deep and brooding, with layered aromas of dark cherry, dried herbs, tobacco, and a touch of balsamic lift. The palate is structured but not heavy, with freshness balancing the ripe fruit and savoury complexity. Tannins are firm but well integrated, making it a wine that’s both powerful and elegant. It has the kind of soulful character that speaks to place and patience, with plenty of ageing potential ahead. One for lovers of traditional, unhurried winemaking.