Why is Montepulciano d'Abruzzo called that? Story of a famous name
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is one of the most appreciated and well-known Italian red wines throughout the world. This wine takes its name from the main grape variety with which it is produced, Montepulciano, but the origin of this name may surprise many enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the history behind the name of this famous Abruzzo wine, revealing curiosities and legends that have marked its path over the centuries.
The origin of the name Montepulciano
Contrary to what one might think, the name of the Montepulciano vine has no direct link with the Tuscan municipality of the same name, famous for the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. In fact, the origins of the Montepulciano vine are still the subject of debate among historians and ampelographers.
One of the most accredited hypotheses traces the name "Montepulciano" to the Latin term "Mons Politicus", which means "Political Mountain". This term was used in medieval times to indicate the hills on which fortified cities or villages stood, often seats of political power. According to this theory, the Montepulciano vine may have taken its name from the Abruzzo hills on which it was grown, considered strategic from a political and military point of view.
Legends and curiosities related to the name
Various legends and curiosities have developed over the centuries around the name Montepulciano. One of these says that the name derives from "Monte dei Poliziani", in reference to a noble family from Abruzzo who introduced and spread the vine in the region. However, there is no historical evidence to support this theory.
Another curiosity concerns the spread of the Montepulciano vine beyond the borders of Abruzzo. Although Abruzzo is considered the homeland of this grape variety, Montepulciano is also cultivated in other Italian regions, such as Marche, Molise and Puglia. In these areas, the vine has found favorable pedoclimatic conditions, although giving rise to wines with slightly different characteristics compared to Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC.
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo today
Today Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is an internationally appreciated and recognized wine, a symbol of Abruzzo and Italian enology. The controlled designation of origin (DOC) "Montepulciano d'Abruzzo" was established in 1968, demonstrating the importance of this wine for the territory and for the regional economy.
The production specifications for Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC require the use of at least 85% Montepulciano grapes, to which other non-aromatic red grapes can be added, up to a maximum of 15%. This allows producers to best express the characteristics of the vine, giving life to wines of great personality and typicality.
In conclusion, the name of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is closely linked to the history and traditions of this Italian region. Although the exact origin of the name is still shrouded in mystery, the deep connection between the vine and the Abruzzo territory is indisputable. Today, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo continues to tell this fascinating story through its aromas, its flavors and its unmistakable personality, conquering the palates of enthusiasts and connoisseurs from all over the world.