Fantini OPI Riserva 2018
A powerful and mature Montepulciano Riserva with deep dark fruit, structured tannins, and layered complexity. Rich, refined, and built for serious red wine lovers.
From the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Colline Teramane DOCG appellation, produced by the esteemed Fantini Group. Crafted exclusively from Montepulciano grapes sourced from the Tenuta Cantalupo estate in Notaresco, this wine exemplifies the rich winemaking heritage of the Abruzzo region.
The palate reveals concentrated black cherry, plum, and blackberry layered with dark chocolate, tobacco, and sweet spice. Subtle earthy undertones and oak-derived notes of vanilla and cocoa add depth, leading to a long, structured finish.
A wine with excellent aging potential, poised to develop further complexity in the coming years. It is ideal for pairing with grilled meats, hearty pasta dishes, and aged cheeses. This wine exemplifies the richness and sophistication of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, making it a standout choice for those seeking a bold yet elegant wine with a lasting impression.
Italy
Abruzzo
Montepulciano
750ml
13.5%
2018Fantini OPI Riserva is produced in Abruzzo, along Italy’s Adriatic coast, where the combination of mountain altitude and maritime influence creates ideal conditions for structured, age-worthy reds. The region is particularly renowned for Montepulciano, its flagship grape variety.
This wine is made from carefully selected Montepulciano grapes grown in higher-altitude vineyards, allowing for slower ripening and greater concentration. The “Riserva” designation indicates extended ageing, giving the wine additional depth, structure, and integration. The 2016 vintage, widely regarded across Italy as a strong and balanced year, provided excellent ripeness combined with freshness and ageing potential.
Fantini’s OPI range represents one of the estate’s premium expressions - crafted with meticulous selection, controlled fermentation, and extended maturation to highlight both power and elegance.
A dry, full-bodied red with significant structure and presence. This is not a light or casual wine — it carries weight, depth, and firm tannins that give it a serious, age-worthy feel.
Despite its power, the extended ageing has softened the edges, creating a smoother and more integrated profile than a young Montepulciano. It balances richness with freshness, making it bold but controlled rather than heavy.
In simple terms: a structured, premium Italian red with depth and maturity — ideal for those who enjoy powerful wines like Amarone or robust Bordeaux-style reds.
- Appearance: Deep garnet with ruby highlights and impressive concentration.
- Nose: Black cherry, plum, cocoa, tobacco, and subtle oak spice.
- Palate: Rich dark fruit layered with chocolate, spice, and savoury depth.
- Texture: Full-bodied with firm yet refined tannins.
- Finish: Long, structured, and warming with persistent dark fruit and spice.
- Braised Beef or Short Ribs – The wine’s structure complements slow-cooked richness.
- Lamb Shoulder or Venison – Bold flavours align with its depth and intensity.
- Aged Pecorino or Parmigiano Reggiano – Salty, crystalline cheeses enhance fruit concentration.
- Wild Mushroom or Truffle Dishes – Earthy elements echo savoury complexity.
- Dark Chocolate (70%+) – Bittersweet notes pair beautifully with cocoa tones.
- Serve at 17–18°C to allow full aromatic development.
- Decant for at least 60–90 minutes before serving to open structure and enhance integration.
- Use a large-bowl red wine glass to maximise aeration.
- Drinking beautifully now after extended ageing, with further potential to evolve over the next 5–10 years under proper cellar conditions.
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