Cerasuolo literally means “cherry red,” and the DOC designation separates this Rosé style from the dark hued reds of Montepulciano D’Abruzzo DOC. Both require 85% Montepulciano, and this offering is 100%, and spent three months on lees before bottling. It is quite pigmented (think Tavel) as you would expect from the grape, and it is a pleasure to swirl and sniff for its fresh tart cherry and soft herb notes. These translate brightly on the palate with a nice push of fruit in the finish. A little chill is a good play here. Serve with just about any weather, from fall and winter feasts to simple summer fare.
Masciarelli, Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo Superiore DOC (Italy) 2022
By Rich Cook