Montepulciano – Italian Soul, Californian Vineyards, Florida Craft

Montepulciano is traditionally associated with Italy, but this wine carries a distinct American story. Our Montepulciano is crafted in Florida using premium Montepulciano grapes grown in California, bringing together Old World heritage and New World craftsmanship in every bottle.

From the vineyard rows of California to the winery in Florida, this wine is shaped by three places:

• The Italian origins of the Montepulciano grape,

• The sun-drenched vineyards of California, and

• The First Coast of Florida, where the wine is carefully made and bottled.

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The Journey of the Grape

The Montepulciano grape has long been valued for its deep colour, rich fruit character, and naturally balanced acidity. In our case, the story begins not in Europe, but in carefully selected California vineyards where the climate and sunshine allow the grapes to reach excellent ripeness.

Once harvested, the grapes are transported under controlled conditions to Florida, where we handle the fermentation, ageing, and bottling. This two-step origin allows us to combine:

• The quality and consistency of California fruit, and

• The hands-on, small-batch approach of a Florida winery.

The result is a wine that honours the classical profile of Montepulciano while reflecting a distinctly American route from vine to glass.

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Tasting Profile

Our Florida-made Montepulciano from California-grown grapes is designed to be both approachable and refined.

Appearance
Deep ruby red with a youthful, purple hue at the rim.

Aroma

• Ripe black cherry and plum

• Blackberry and dark berry compote

• Subtle notes of dried herbs, gentle spice, and a hint of cocoa or mocha

Palate

• Medium to full-bodied

• Juicy dark fruit at the centre

• Fresh, balanced acidity suitable for a warm climate

• Rounded tannins that provide structure without being aggressive

Finish
Smooth, lingering finish with a touch of savoury complexity that invites another sip.

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Food Pairing Suggestions

This style of Montepulciano is extremely food-friendly and works well with both Italian-inspired dishes and regional American favourites.

Italian and Mediterranean Dishes

• Pizza with sausage, pepperoni, or roasted vegetables

• Pasta with tomato-based sauces, Bolognese, or baked lasagne

• Eggplant Parmesan, baked ziti, or meatballs in marinara sauce

Grill and Comfort Food

• Grilled steaks, burgers, or sausages

• Barbecued pork or beef

• Herb-roasted chicken or turkey

• Hearty casseroles and baked dishes

Cheese and Charcuterie

• Aged cheeses such as pecorino, Parmesan, or mature cheddar

• Cured meats including salami, prosciutto, and similar charcuterie

If a dish includes tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, or grilled meats, this Montepulciano will usually be a very suitable partner.

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Serving and Cellaring

To enjoy this wine at its best:

• Serving temperature:
  Serve at approximately 16–18 °C (60–65 °F). If the bottle is at room temperature and the room is warm, place it in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes before serving.

• Glassware:
  Use a medium or large red wine glass to allow the aroma to develop.

• Breathing time:
  Opening the bottle 20–30 minutes before serving, or a brief decant, helps the wine open up and reveal more layers.

• Ageing potential:
  The wine is ready to drink upon release. With proper storage, it can continue to evolve for several years, gaining additional softness and complexity.

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Why This Montepulciano Is Different

This is not a standard imported bottle. It is:

• Produced in Florida, giving it a clear sense of place for local consumers and visitors.

• Made with California-grown Montepulciano grapes, ensuring reliable quality and ripe fruit character.

• Inspired by Italian tradition, yet tailored to modern tastes and to the foods people actually enjoy in the United States.

It is a wine that connects regions: Italian heritage, Californian vineyards, and Florida craftsmanship.

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Conclusion

Our Montepulciano represents a modern expression of a classic grape:
Italian in origin, Californian in vineyard, and Floridian in the glass.

Whether served with a simple weeknight pasta, a weekend barbecue, or a special family meal, it offers depth, balance, and a clear identity – a New World journey built on Old World roots.