Despite the outward simplicity of Abruzzi's DOC system, certain details of Abruzzi's wine production are worth pointing out. The native Montepulciano (not to be confused with the town of that name in Tuscany where Vino Nobile is made) is a vine of convincing character that has been winning admirers abroad.
In parts of the Abruzzi, notably in the low hills of the northern province of Teramo, Montepulciano becomes a red of irresistible character – full-bodied, even robust, with a capacity to age but with a supple smoothness
that can make it eminently drinkable even when young. The red and riserva from the Teramo area have been distinguished under the DOCG of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Colline Teramane.
The rest of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is DOC, applying to both the red wine and the cherry hued rosé of Cerasuolo. Two other subzones are noted: Casauria or Terre di Casauria and Terre dei Vestini.
Much Trebbiano is based on the prolific Tuscan variety, which makes light, crisp whites of subtle aroma and flavor. Some growers work with the "true" Trebbiano d'Abruzzo (which may or may not be related to the Bombino Bianco of Apulia). A choice few have managed to make Trebbiano of remarkable depth and texture, with a propensity to develop complexity over four or five years, sometimes even more, of aging. Those wines are relatively rare.
