Azienda Agricola Masciarelli Marina Cvetić Iskra Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva 2019 750ml

Dark and brooding, the 2019 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Riserva Iskra slowly evolves. Clove and mocha hints further complicate the dried black cherry and sage aromas. It’s elegant and refined with polished red and blue fruits carried across a mineral core as sweet wood spice sensations form toward the close. The 2019 is structured with fine-grained tannins that saturate as cocoa and balsamic spice slowly taper off. This strapping Iskra is built for the cellar.

This plush red has a round creaminess, although sculpted tannins and balsamico acidity provide fine definition. Offers a ripe profile of plum pudding, blackberry coulis and vanilla elements, with savory notes of iron, Mediterranean macchia and fresh earth. Firm finish. Best from 2025 through 2034. 2,666 cases made, 500 cases imported. (Alison Napjus)

The nose balances an earthy herbaceousness with fruit undertones of strawberries, candied cherries and dried cranberries. On the palate, dense, taut tannins and formidable acid provide framing for a powerful, salty dark chocolate note, but lingering dried red berries provide some levity. (Danielle Callegari)

Smooth and spicy, with a thick dark-chocolate texture and hints of sage, this high-octane wine is built for rich wintery stews.