As we continue to feature out-of-the-mainstream wines in the new year,

we focus on a red from Italy. 

A red from Italy…

That narrows it down to, oh,

about 2-3 hundred possibilities. 

Italy produces more wine than any country on the planet. 

Only a fraction is imported to the United States. 

Fortunately,  Zaccagnini’s Montepulciano d’Abruzzo

has been on American shelves for years

and continues to be a best buy.

In the sea of sameness that is the wine wall,

this wine stands out. 

Every bottle has a twig/stick secured to the neck. 

Pretty smart marketing as this has become known as the “stick” wine. 

But it’s what’s on the inside of the bottle that distinguishes this wine.

It’s less acidic than chianti, the most popular Italian red. 

There’s a touch of sweetness that works well with the big dark fruit flavors. 

Over the years, I’ve noticed wide variation from one vintage to another. 

2016 was a good year for this Montepulciano.

You can find Cantina Zaccagnini’s 2016 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo

at Fred Meyer for $13.99,

at QFC for $14.99

and at Safeway for $15.99. 

Just look for the wine with “the stick”.