Cantina Indigeno Bianco Trebbiano 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 Abruzzo wine region, often overshadowed by Italy's more famous wine-producing areas like Tuscany and Piedmont, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located in central Italy, Abruzzo offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and, most importantly, exceptional wines. This essay explores the fascinating world of Abruzzo wines, delving into its history, key wine varieties, winemaking traditions, and the region's cultural and natural allure.

Abruzzo's winemaking heritage dates back to ancient times, with evidence of viticulture found in the region during the Roman era. The Etruscans and Romans recognized the potential of Abruzzo's fertile lands and favorable climate for producing high-quality grapes. Over the centuries, winemaking techniques were refined and passed down through generations, creating a rich tapestry of traditions that continue to influence modern winemaking in the region.

Abruzzo is between the Adriatic Sea to the east and the Apennine Mountains to the west. This unique geographical positioning contributes to the region's diverse microclimates, ideal for viticulture. The coastal areas benefit from the moderating influence of the sea. In contrast, the inland areas experience cooler temperatures and greater diurnal temperature variations, enhancing the wines' complexity and structure.

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is the region's flagship wine and one of Italy's most celebrated red wines. Made from the Montepulciano grape, this wine is known for its deep ruby color, robust flavors, and excellent aging potential. It typically exhibits dark berries, plums, and spices notes, with a balanced acidity and velvety tannins. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is versatile, pairing well with a wide range of Italian dishes, from hearty pasta to grilled meats.

Trebbiano d'Abruzzo is the region's prominent white wine, made from the Trebbiano grape. It is a crisp and refreshing wine characterized by its pale straw color and delicate citrus, green apple, and almond aromas. The palate offers a bright acidity and a clean, mineral finish. Trebbiano d'Abruzzo is a perfect companion to seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.

Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo is a distinctive rosé wine with its vibrant cherry color and refreshing character. Made from Montepulciano grapes, it combines the best qualities of red and white wines, offering aromas of red berries and flowers with a crisp and dry palate. It is an ideal wine for summer, pairing beautifully with appetizers, grilled vegetables, and seafood.

In addition to Montepulciano and Trebbiano, Abruzzo is home to indigenous grape varieties like Pecorino and Passerina. Pecorino is a white grape that produces wines with floral and fruity aromas, high acidity, and a mineral backbone. Another white variety, Passerina yields wines with delicate floral notes, bright acidity, and a hint of salinity. Both wines reflect the region's vinicultural diversity and are gaining recognition for their quality and unique profiles.