Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is the leading red wine of the Abruzzo region in eastern central Italy. The wine's name comes from the grape - Montepulciano - and the region of Abruzzo. The production zone extends from the region's southern border with Molise all the way to the northern border with Marche; all four of Abruzzo's provinces are part of this DOC.

A Montepulciano d'Abruzzo must contain a minimum of 85% Montepulciano. There is no aging requirement for the classic bottling, while a riserva must be aged a minimum of two years, with six months of that time in wood. Traditionally, most examples have been produced by large firms; the wines are deep in color with ripe black fruit and moderate tannins. Lately, there have been a concerted effort by smaller producers to make a more complex style of wine. The typical Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is meant for early consumption with red meats and lighter game and retails for less than $20. (Wine/Appellations)