About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Casa Pepe is a 0.80-hectare historic plot at the winery, 12 km from the Adriatic Sea and 43 km from Gran Sasso. Planted in 1974, the pergola-trained vineyard was grafted in the field by Emidio Pepe using a genetically diverse pool of plant material. It faces south on a 12% incline and receives long sunlight exposure, including the morning sun.
The vineyard occupies a classic Abruzzo blue clay-marl terroir. Shallow, lean topsoil over dense blue clay characterizes the upper slope; deeper, richer soils and speckled lenses of sandy limestone pebbles occur lower down. These lenses increase porosity and permeability, supporting root development and water reserves. Casa Pepe averages approximately 44% clay, 19% sand and 5% gravel. Its strongly calcareous soil has a pH of 8.37 and 6.7% active lime.
The substantial silt component and retained humidity keep the soil cooler and allow a slow ripening process and completion of the phenolic cycle. Clay depth contributes to a solid tannic framework, while the gradual ripening supports tannic complexity and definition.
Grapes
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.
Tasting profile
The profile is rich, enveloping, deep and fleshy, combining complexity with harmony. Mediterranean notes evoke rosemary and myrtle. The tannins are solid and firm, set within a velvety texture, and the wine has a warm, measured and introspective character.
