Lu Cuntaden 2018 – Rabasco

Overview

The Lu Cuntaden 2018 from Rabasco is a natural and artisanal Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, produced with spontaneous fermentation and short maceration in open vats. The wine comes from the “Filare” vineyard in Pianella, Pescara, on clay-limestone soils, which impart structure, minerality, and balance. No added sulfites ensure the wine remains authentic, transparent, and a true expression of the Abruzzo terroir.

History of the Wine

The Lu Cuntaden project embodies Rabasco’s philosophy of respecting old vines and local grape varieties. Grapes are hand-harvested from the “Filare” vineyard, managed according to traditional methods that preserve soil health and biodiversity. The 2018 vintage produced healthy, ripe grapes, ideal for a Montepulciano that is balanced, expressive, and true to its origins.

Vineyard Philosophy

The vines grow in contrada San Desiderio on clay-limestone soils, favoring freshness and tension in the wine. Farming is organic and biodynamic, with no synthetic chemicals. Careful manual selection of clusters ensures only the best grapes are vinified, respecting local biodiversity.

Winemaking Approach

The winemaking involves gentle crushing, spontaneous fermentation, and short maceration in open vats, without temperature control, fining, or filtration. Aging in steel tanks preserves freshness, vibrancy, and the authentic Montepulciano character. No sulfites are added.

Tasting Notes

Color: Bright ruby red.
Nose: Delicate animal notes combine with wild strawberry jam, black pepper, and bay leaf.
Palate: Agile and fresh, with balanced tannins and a smooth, approachable texture.

Pairings

Ideal with hearty soups with mixed pasta, legumes, spring vegetables, aromatic herbs, and pork dishes. Serve at 15-17 °C.

Technical Sheet

• Producer: Rabasco

• Vintage: 2018

• Region: Abruzzo – Italy

• Appellation: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC

• Grape Variety: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo

• Vinification: Gentle crushing, spontaneous fermentation, short maceration in open vats

• Aging: Steel tanks

• Alcohol: 12%

• Philosophy: Natural, artisanal, no added sulfites

• Format: 0.75 L

• Allergens: Contains sulfites

Cantina Rabasco – Natural Wines between the Majella and Gran Sasso

History

Not all stories begin with “once upon a time,” and not all protagonists are people. The story of Rabasco unfolds among the hills of Abruzzo, embraced by the Majella, the mother mountain, and the Gran Sasso, which here reveals itself as the gentle silhouette of a Sleeping Beauty. In the distance, the Adriatic Sea opens the horizon, creating a breathtaking landscape. It is here, when the vineyard was already 40 years old, that Iole Rabasco arrived. With a background in law, she chose to dedicate her life to the land, seeking to leave behind a lasting and positive legacy.

Vineyard Philosophy

At the heart of the project lies the vineyard: 11 hectares cultivated first organically and now through biodynamic farming, following natural rhythms and respecting the life cycles of the soil. The goal is not only to harvest healthy grapes but also to maintain fertility, preserve biodiversity, and protect the environment. For Iole, this choice represents a way to do something meaningful yet humble: contributing to a better, more sustainable future for the next generations.

Winemaking Approach

In the cellar, the philosophy remains the same: spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts, no fining or filtration, and minimal to no sulfur additions. This hands-off approach allows the wine to fully express its authenticity and connection to the land. Each bottle becomes a story of Abruzzo, its hills, its mountains, and its people.

A New Beginning

From the encounter between vineyard and winemaker arises a silent pact: the vines offer generous fruit, and Iole transforms it into wine capable of traveling far, carrying the true identity of its grapes. Yet the story does not end here. Every glass of Rabasco wine is a new beginning, written together with those who choose to taste it with critical spirit and open heart. An invitation to experience wine not just as a drink, but as an authentic encounter with nature and humanity.