Candied cherries, sweet rose and hints of fresh mint make the 2018 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Cadetto a total pleasure on the nose. This is a juicy and round effort with vividly ripe red fruits, notes of licorice and spice that find balance through a core of vibrant acidity. The Cadetto cleans up nicely with just a hint of subtle tannin that helps to create a pleasantly dry sensation through the finale. While a bit extroverted, the 2018 is quite easy to like.

A fresh, straightforward red, with accessible notes of ripe black plum, sage and loamy earth. Drink now.