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Montepulciano and Tintilia: great Adriatic reds

Montepulciano e Tintilia. Vigneti Tenimenti Grieco

Both of these wines, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Tintilia del Molise, deserve to be tasted to appreciate the extraordinary wine variety that Italy has to offer.

Until 1963 Abruzzo and Molise was a single region, as established by the Constitution, then the choice was made to make them two separate regions, mainly for administrative reasons, since historically they have always constituted a single entity. This is perhaps the reason why Molise viticulture has been strongly influenced by Abruzzi, to the point that the most cultivated grape variety in the region is precisely that Montepulciano which reigns supreme a little further north. For the past couple of decades, however, Molise has decided to focus on the Tintilia

, an ancient variety that has recently been rediscovered and stands as a symbol of Molisian authenticity. A way perhaps of enfranchising itself from its older sister region.

Style and versatility

The Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is one of the best known Italian red wines, with a wide production and a variety of styles ranging from young wines to more complex reserves. Thanks to its widespread distribution, it is readily available both in Italy and abroad. It stands out for its accessibility and versatility. Pleasant and immediate, it pairs perfectly with traditional Italian dishes such as pasta with meat sauce, roasts, cured meats and aged cheeses. Not much different is Molise Rosso, made precisely from Montepulciano grapes.

La Tintilia of Molise, on the other hand, has a more limited production and is a niche wine, ideal for those seeking authenticity and tradition. Due to its unique character, it goes well with local dishes such as lamb, game, red meats and flavorful cheeses. This wine is an authentic expression of a lesser-known but history-rich territory. In recent years, it has been rediscovered by native wine enthusiasts, attracting increasing attention for its quality and uniqueness.

Tenuta Centovie - Umani Ronchi, Michele Bernetti
Tenuta Centovie – Umani Ronchi, Michele Bernetti

We offer a sample of each of the two wines, the price is good is the quality guaranteed by our tastings. The first is the Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Jorio 2021 Tenuta Centovie Umani Ronchi and the second is the Tintilia del Molise 200 Metri 2023 Tenimenti Grieco. Let us know which one you prefer!

Tenuta Centovie

This winery is the Abruzzi rib of the famous Marche winery Umani Ronchi of Cupramontana, in the heart of the Castelli di Jesi. It was born in the 2000s with the purchase by the Bianchi-Bernetti family of the estate in Roseto degli Abruzzi, which, with its 35 hectares, is an active participant in the 240 hectares of estate vineyards. Elegance and sharpness of aroma and taste in all the wines presented, perfectly aligned, in style and drinking approach, with their “cousins” from the Marche region.

Tenimenti Grieco

Tenimenti Grieco, Antonio Greco and Emanuela Secca
Tenimenti Grieco, Antonio Greco and Emanuela Secca


The company is located in Portocannone, in the province of Campobasso, near the sea and is owned by
Antonio Grieco, successful entrepreneur, and Emanuela Secca. It was born from the ashes of Masseria Flocco and immediately established itself among the leading wineries on the Molise wine scene, both in terms of the number of hectares under vine (85) and the number of bottles produced (700,000). The vineyards are located in the hills (hence the name Tintilia 200 Metri), close to the sun-kissed coastline that looks down on the sea and the Tremiti Islands.

TO READ THE WINE DESCRIPTIONS, WITH SCORE AND AVERAGE SHELF PRICE, CLICK ON THE TABS BELOW.

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