Guardiagrele occupies a prominent position in the Chieti hinterland, on the eastern slopes of the Maiella, amidst a landscape of high hills and valleys that slope down towards the Pescara Valley and the Adriatic. The significant variation in altitude creates distinct wine-growing environments, all characterised by strong breezes and marked temperature variations between day and night, favoured by the interplay of Mediterranean influences, Adriatic currents and a mountain climate. The soils reflect the geological complexity of the area: the limestone substrates of the areas closest to the Maiella are complemented by hilly and sedimentary substrates, which support well-balanced vines and impart a distinctive freshness.
The grape varieties grown here include, above all, Montepulciano, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, Pecorino, Cococciola and Passerina, alongside other authorised varieties from the Abruzzo tradition. This yields structured, long-lived red wines, fragrant rosés and whites with good structure, characterised by profiles that emphasise fruit, savouriness and dynamism. Vine cultivation may employ either the traditional Abruzzo ‘tendone’ system or row-planting methods, depending on altitude, aspect and soil fertility. In the cellar, winemaking focuses on bringing out the best in each variety, with ageing in stainless steel and more complex interpretations, capable of expressing the foothill identity of Guardiagrele and the connection between the mountains, hills and sea.
