We learned the reason behind why these local wines aren't really on the map of the world. We were told it goes back to after WWII when the region was very poor, and many people immigrated, those left behind pooled together their lands and made mass production of grapes (because it was too expensive to make & bottle). They sold these grapes off to the other wine regions, which by laws made in the 60s (DOCG) they had to use 75% of locally grown grapes. So grapes from here became blending grapes for some of the very best wines of Italy (Barolo). Only around 25 years ago, did entrepreneurs realize that the only way to make real money over time was to make and bottle your own wine. So now they are farming the land differently and trying to establish their varietals.
As for the whites you will find two grapes; Trebbiano and Pecorino (like the cheese). These are crisp, fresh, with more acid taste than fruit - wonderful.
The red grape, Montepulcino, is very deep red in color. The region recently won a fight for the name against the town in Tuscany. The grape is very strong and needs to be in oak and aged for some time to calm the tannins. It seems there are probably too many extremes in production for it to make consistent ratings and therefore traction in the greater world of wine (in my humble opinion). When you do find a good one, like Fontifeco, it's very good and under $15. It's hard to beat that!
We happened to be here the weekend of Cantina Aperta, which is when many Italian wineries open their doors to the public. We were able to try a few; Agriverde, Il Feuduccio. Here are some shots of the wineries and countryside.
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