2024 Tenuta Ulisse Sogno di Ulisse Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOP, Abruzzo

From the sun drenched hills of Abruzzo, where the Apennines roll down toward the Adriatic, Montepulciano finds one of its most natural homes. Tenuta Ulisse, led by brothers Antonio and Luigi Ulisse, has built a reputation for taking this traditional variety and presenting it with a modern, polished edge while still respecting its regional roots. Their approach blends innovation with a deep connection to Abruzzo’s viticultural history, a region that has quietly been producing soulful reds for generations.

The Sogno di Ulisse is very much a tribute to that heritage, a wine that leans into generosity without losing its sense of place. Warm days and cooling sea breezes help the fruit ripen fully while retaining freshness, and the soils, a mix of clay and limestone, give structure and a subtle mineral backbone.

Deep ruby in colour, it opens with ripe black cherry, plum and mulberry, layered with hints of cocoa, sweet spice and a touch of liquorice. There is a softness to the aromatics that invites you straight in. The palate follows through with plush dark fruit, rounded tannins and a smooth, almost velvety texture. There is enough structure to keep things grounded, but the overall feel is generous and immediately appealing, a wine that delivers plenty of flavour without needing too much contemplation.

It’s a natural match for hearty, flavour driven dishes. Slow cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic, classic lasagne, or chargrilled eggplant with tomato and smoked paprika all sit beautifully alongside its richness. Hard cheeses with a bit of age also work well, especially something nutty and savoury.

Best enjoyed over the next five to seven years, though its balance means it will hold comfortably if you decide to tuck a few bottles away.

There’s a relaxed charm here, the kind of wine that suits a long table, plenty of food, and conversation that drifts well into the evening.