Cantina Indigeno Rosso Montepulciano 2021

Cantina Indigeno, located in Montorio al Vomano in the Teramo province of Abruzzo, Italy, is an emerging force in the natural wine movement. Established in 2016 by Alfredo Giugno, Nicola Reginaldi, Fabio Petrella, and Loreto Lamolinara, the winery is known for its commitment to minimal intervention winemaking and producing wines that authentically reflect the terroir of Abruzzo.

Four friends laid the foundation of Cantina Indigeno with a shared passion for natural fermentation and a vision to create authentic wines. Alfredo Giugno, an accountant by day and a beer-brewer by night, teamed up with Loreto Lamolinara, who had experience distributing craft beers. Together, they opened a microbrewery in 2013, eventually leading to Cantina Indigeno's creation with the addition of Nicola Reginaldi and Fabio Petrella. Nicola, a sommelier with a deep passion for natural wines, played a crucial role in shaping the winery's direction and philosophy​.

Cantina Indigeno's approach to winemaking is rooted in minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and the environment to shine through. They practice organic farming, using only copper and sulfur in the vineyards. The grapes are harvested by hand, and spontaneous fermentation is carried out with indigenous yeasts without any temperature control, filtration, fining, or the addition of sulfur. This commitment to natural practices results in fresh, vibrant, and expressive wines of their terroir​​.

One of Cantina Indigeno's standout wines is the Trebbiano Sub Orange. This skin-contact white wine, made from the Trebbiano grape, undergoes fermentation with the grape skins, giving it an orange hue and a complex flavor profile. The wine is characterized by its vibrant acidity, citrus, and stone fruit notes, and a slight tannic structure, making it a unique and refreshing choice for wine enthusiasts​.

Another notable wine is the Rosso Giara, made from Montepulciano d'Abruzzo grapes. This wine is aged eight months on its lees in amphorae, adding depth and complexity to its flavor. The Rosso Giara is known for its juicy and drinkable nature, with earthy and acidic notes that reflect the influence of the amphorae aging process​.

Cantina Indigeno has quickly gained recognition in international markets despite being a relatively new winery. Their wines are particularly popular in the United States and Japan, where the demand for natural wines is growing. The winery's unique and authentic approach has resonated with wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide, helping them expand their reach and reputation beyond Italy​.

The viticultural roots of Abruzzo delve deep into ancient history, with civilizations like the Romans laying the groundwork for the region's esteemed wine traditions. Over the millennia, Abruzzo has evolved, absorbing influences from various cultures and trade networks. This amalgamation of historical interactions has solidified its standing in the wine industry, particularly in the realm of organic and natural wine production.

Geographically diverse, Abruzzo's terroir spans from the Adriatic coastlines to the Apennine mountains, resulting in a multifaceted microclimate. The soil, enriched with clay, limestone, and distinct minerals, offers a nurturing environment conducive to grape cultivation. Each sub-region within Abruzzo, whether coastal or mountainous, imparts a unique terroir expression, influencing the region's wine profile.

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, the region's signature red wine, is globally acknowledged for its robust character and depth. Yet, Abruzzo's viticultural spectrum extends beyond this, with white grape varieties such as Pecorino and Trebbiano holding significance. The emphasis on organic and natural wine methodologies underscores Abruzzo's commitment to sustainable viticulture, ensuring minimal intervention while maintaining the authentic essence of the terroir.