Adriatic coast to Apennine mountains in central Italy; dramatic landscape from sea to Gran Sasso (2900m). Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (different from Vino Nobile di Montepulciano) is the flagship red — deeply coloured, tannic, and food-friendly. Also Trebbiano d'Abruzzo (white) and Pecorino (white, different grape). Clay-limestone and sandstone soils. One of Italy's great-value red wine appellations.
| Year | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | — | Good Adriatic-Apennine conditions; Montepulciano d'Abruzzo concentrated and structured; Emidio Pepe biodynamic vines thriving |
| 2021 | — | Classic Abruzzo vintage; old-vine Montepulciano achieving typical depth; Trebbiano complex from long lees ageing |
| 2020 | — | Outstanding vintage; Emidio Pepe Montepulciano from 2020 to be released 2035+; Trebbiano will astound in 15 years |
| 2019 | — | Good conditions; Montepulciano's tannic structure very pronounced; cellar 20+ years for full expression |
| 2018 | — | Variable Italian vintage; clay-limestone drainage advantageous; Pepe wines maintained typical quality |
| 2017 | — | Good vintage; Montepulciano d'Abruzzo showing characteristic dark fruit density; will reward extreme patience |
| 2016 | — | Superb Abruzzo vintage; Emidio Pepe wines to be released eventually — among most anticipated Italian wines |