2001 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva
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Tasting notes
The 2001 is a sultry and flirtatious vintage of Pepe’s Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Vecchie Vigne. Dark and a bit murky at first, it takes nearly an hour to blow off a musky, almost wooly mineral and animal-toned air; however, beneath it all, there are depths of tobacco, cherry sauce, scorched earth and a mentholated, herbal freshness that adds a wonderful lift. This soft, nearly-fleshy wine finds a lovely harmony through a mix of nervous acidity and citrus-tinged red fruits that add a highly energetic and almost-juicy feel. Blood orange nuances and a burst of inner sweetness mix with an inner sensation of wet autumn leaves (I know, I know, but it’s Pepe), as the 2001 finishes completely resolved, long and with a hint of balsamic spice that lingers on and on. While it takes a little work to unlock the 2001’s charms, good luck not devouring the entire bottle once it’s opened.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Blackberry and charred beef, smooth and liquorice on the palate. Doesn't seem to be blossoming quite as you might expect – such a slow burner, this one! Firm tannins, almost Nebbiolo-esque. Tightly wound. (RH)
Chiara, Emidio's granddaughter, explains that 2001 was a 'classic vintage with rain and sun at the right time. There was some rain in the middle of July, which was perfect.' Bottle number 44,172. Concentrated, mid ruby with narrow orange rim. This wine shows kinship with the 2005 with regard to perfect concentration and incredible depth, but this is even more focused and multi-layered and still youthful. Dark and red fruit with a suggestion of smoke that evolves into spice the longer the wine sits in the glass. Lifted acidity that melts away into the fruit. Succulent fresh cherry and lots of coating tannins that never take the upper hand. Long, cool and elegant. (WS)
Gentle, soft, still quite primary fruit. Fine, grippy tannins. Long and expressive. (RH)
About the producer
Emidio Pepe is a star of the Abruzzo region and one of Italy’s most famous names. Worshipped by natural-wine lovers for its low-intervention approach, this estate makes category-defying, age-worthy examples of Montepulciano, Trebbiano and Cerasolo d’Abruzzo, as well as Pecorino Colli Aprutini.