Explore the Region where Montepulciano and Pecorino wines express the purity of Italy’s mountains and coast.

When people dream of Italy, they often picture the rolling hills of Tuscany or the romantic streets of Rome. But just east of the capital city — across the Apennine Mountains and down toward the Adriatic Sea — lies one of Italy’s most authentic and underrated regions: Abruzzo.

It’s a land where the mountains meet the sea, where nature still rules, and where every meal feels like a family gathering. Known for its wild beauty, historic villages, and soul-warming cuisine, Abruzzo is Italy as it once was — genuine, generous, and gloriously untouched.

Why Americans Are Falling in Love with Abruzzo

For many American travelers who’ve already explored Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, Abruzzo feels like the next great discovery. It offers the same Italian charm, but with fewer crowds and a deeper connection to local life.

You can spend your morning hiking the snow-tipped Gran Sasso National Park, your afternoon relaxing by the Adriatic coast, and your evening dining on a “trabocco” — a wooden fishing platform turned seaside restaurant, where the sea breeze and a glass of local wine do all the talking.

And if you love authentic food, Abruzzo will win your heart instantly. Traditional dishes like Spaghetti alla Chitarra — cut with a guitar-shaped tool — and Arrosticini, perfectly grilled lamb skewers, speak to the region’s rustic soul. The prized Saffron from L’Aquila, among the best in the world, colors risottos and local breads, while sweet lovers can indulge in Torrone from Aquila, a tender nougat layered with chocolate and hazelnuts.

Even the local Gentian liqueur, made from the roots of mountain herbs, tells a story of deep tradition — strong, bitter, and unforgettable.

A Region Built on Wine and Tradition

Abruzzo’s vineyards stretch between the Apennines and the Adriatic, creating a natural paradise for grape growing. While the region cultivates over 60 different varietals, a handful have become true ambassadors of its identity.

For reds, the undisputed star is Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, a ruby-red wine bursting with notes of dark fruit and spice — smooth, full-bodied, and as warm as the people who make it.

For whites, the rising star is Pecorino, a grape that has made an incredible comeback in recent years. Once nearly forgotten, it now stands proudly among Italy’s most distinctive white wines.

Featured Wine: Pecorino — The Fresh Face of Abruzzo

At Above Wines, we’re thrilled to celebrate the beauty of Abruzzo by featuring its signature white wine: Pecorino.

Bright and expressive, Pecorino captures everything we love about Abruzzo — freshness, character, and authenticity. It gleams pale straw-yellow in the glass, with delicate aromas of ripe fruit, apple, and white flowers. On the palate, it’s dry, crisp, and perfectly balanced, with a refreshing acidity that leaves you wanting another sip.

It’s a wine that tells the story of its land: the sea breeze, the mountain air, and the passion of small family producers who have preserved this grape for generations.

Perfect Pairings: Enjoy it with seafood dishes, pasta alla chitarra, or even a light cheese board. Pecorino’s lively acidity and minerality make it incredibly versatile — a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Special Feature: To honor our month of Abruzzo, we’re offering our Pecorino from Terre di Poggio (DOC Abruzzo) at a special price. It’s the perfect way to experience the charm of this hidden region — one glass at a time.

ORDER: Pecorino Terre di Poggio, Abruzzo, ON SALE!