Barba 2015 Montepulciano D'Abruzzo, Vigna Franca

Located in northern Abruzzo, along the Vomano river valley and on the surrounding hills of the "Colline Teramane" territory. This is considered the finest area for growing the Montepulciano grapes for Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. Produced by Fratelli Barba who are dedicated to quality and winemaker Stephano Chioccioli. Chioccioli's experience is second to none. He has worked for wineries large and small in virtually every winemaking region of Italy in addition to extensive international experience. Both Robert Parker and The Wine Spectator have scored several Chioccioli wines a perfect 100 points. The grapes for this wine come from two low yielding vineyards; Colle della Corte and Vignafranca. Fermentation is in traditional conical wood vats that allow maximum extraction. After fermenting this full-bodied red is aged 14 months in French oak barrels. 2015 was an outstanding vintage in this region. 

James Suckling scored it 92 points saying "Delicious, spicy nose of mulberries, blueberry tart, dried lavender, crushed violets, ash, bark, dried nutmeg and even citrus. Medium to full body, fine and polished tannins and a finish that shows attractive tension and length. Drink now."