Experience the rich allure of **Cataldi Madonna Malandrino Montepulciano d'Abruzzo**, a masterpiece of Italian winemaking. This elegant red wine, crafted from 100% Montepulciano grapes grown in the heart of Abruzzo, showcases a deep ruby hue with vibrant aromas of black cherry, blueberry, plum, and delicate floral notes, enhanced by hints of violet and walnut husk. On the palate, it strikes a harmonious balance with velvety tannins, a robust body, and a persistent finish featuring flavors of ripe berries and a whisper of spice. Perfectly suited for pairing with grilled meats, saucy pastas, or aged cheeses, this refined wine delivers both complexity and approachability, making it a timeless choice for any occasion.
Process & Profile
The Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Malandrino reflects centuries of winemaking tradition from the Abruzzo region, often celebrated as the "oven of Abruzzo" for its extraordinary sunlight and diverse microclimates. Grown in vineyards with high-altitude temperature variations and rich clay-limestone soils, this wine benefits from perfect conditions for ripening Montepulciano grapes. Vinified entirely in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant fruit character, the Malandrino showcases a modern, elegant take on Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. With a 14% ABV, the wine is both robust and balanced, designed for immediate enjoyment or medium-term aging.
Tasting Notes
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Color: A striking deep ruby red with purple hints and minimal transparency, exuding vibrancy.
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Nose: The bouquet is intense and multilayered, with inviting aromas of black cherry, blueberry, plum, and violet, complemented by complex undertones of walnut, balsamic, and subtle baking spices.
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Palate: Silky yet structured, the wine balances ripe red and blue fruit flavors with refined tannins and zesty acidity. Notes of black cherries and plums dominate, while a persistent finish reveals pleasant hints of spice, minerals, and a touch of sweetness.
What Makes It Special
Cataldi Madonna's Malandrino epitomizes the unique terroir of Abruzzo. Unlike many oak-aged wines, this Montepulciano is matured exclusively in stainless steel, emphasizing its natural fruit purity, vibrancy, and freshness. The winery, which has crafted exceptional wines for over 100 years, blends tradition with innovation in every bottle. The meticulous selection of grapes from sun-soaked vineyards ensures a distinct character, making it a highly rated wine across vintages (with scores often above 90 points).
How to Enjoy
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Food Pairings: This versatile red pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Enjoy it alongside saucy pasta like marinara or bolognese, grilled meats, or hard cheeses like Pecorino and Parmesan. It also complements Mediterranean specialties like lamb kebabs and roasted vegetables.
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Occasions: Suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions, the Malandrino is perfect for sharing over hearty meals or celebrating with a charcuterie board.
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Serving Tips: Serve slightly chilled (around 60-65°F or 16-18°C) to highlight the wine's fresh acidity and fruit-forward profile. Decanting for 30 minutes enhances its aromatic complexity.
Why Choose Cataldi Madonna Malandrino?
Richly expressive yet refreshingly modern, Cataldi Madonna's Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Malandrino captures the essence of Abruzzo's winemaking glory. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or discovering Montepulciano for the first time, this wine promises an unforgettable tasting experience that pairs Italian tradition with contemporary elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grape variety is used in Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano D'Abruzzo?
This wine is made primarily from the Montepulciano grape, which is native to Italy and known for producing deeply colored, robust, and flavorful red wines. By DOC rules, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo must contain at least 85% Montepulciano grapes, with up to 15% non-aromatic grape varieties allowed.
What are the flavor notes of Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano D'Abruzzo?
This wine typically presents bold flavors of black cherries, juicy red fruits, and sweet spices. Depending on aging, it may also have subtle notes of vanilla, cocoa, tobacco, and leather, contributing to a complex and well-rounded profile.
How should Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano D'Abruzzo be served?
It is best served at a temperature of 55–60°F (13–16°C) and benefits from decanting for about an hour to allow its aromas and flavors to fully develop. Use a large, bowl-shaped glass to enhance the wine's aromatic experience.
Does Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano D'Abruzzo pair well with food?
Yes, it pairs exceptionally well with Mediterranean dishes. It complements roasted meats, pasta with rich tomato-based sauces, and hard cheeses like Pecorino or Parmesan. Its boldness also balances well with char-grilled vegetables and spicy dishes.
What makes Cataldi Madonna's Montepulciano unique?
This wine is crafted in the Abruzzo region of Italy, where the combination of clay-limestone soils, Mediterranean climate, and traditional winemaking techniques creates a wine with depth, character, and a strong sense of terroir.
Is it meant to be consumed young or aged?
Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano D'Abruzzo is approachable when young, showcasing vibrant fruitiness and freshness. However, with proper storage, it can develop additional complexity over a few years, softening its tannins and revealing earthy undertones.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from 12% to 13.5%, adhering to the specifications of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC wines.
How does Montepulciano d'Abruzzo differ from Vino Nobile di Montepulciano?
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a wine made from the Montepulciano grape in the Abruzzo region, while Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a Tuscan wine made primarily from the Sangiovese grape. The similarity in names often causes confusion, but they are entirely different wines.
How long can Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano D'Abruzzo be stored?
When stored properly in a cool, dark place, the wine has a storage potential of up to 5 years. Bottles labeled "Riserva" typically have additional aging potential due to their longer maturation process.
What is the aroma profile of this wine?
Cataldi Madonna Montepulciano D'Abruzzo features inviting aromas of ripe red fruits such as plum and sour cherry, with hints of herbs, spices, and sometimes earthy notes depending on its aging.
