50-Year Old Wine: Vino Cotto (Cooked Wine) in Abruzzo
This sweet wine, called ‘Vino Cotto‘, is literally cooked wine, the result of reducing the must of specific local grapes. Vino Cotto originates from the Abruzzo region, principally within the Teramo province (for evidence, check the Fun Fact section below). However, it is also found in other regions of Italy, such as Marche, Molise, and even Sicily. Each Vino Cotto from the different localities differs in methods of preparation.
Today, we will discuss the original and most ancient version of making Vino Cotto, the one produced on the hills of Teramo in the Abruzzo region. In Abruzzo, the Vino Cotto is produced by reducing to a third of the must from the Montepulciano D’Abruzzo grapes in a copper pot over a wood-fired flame. The must is simmered for around 9 hours, then blended with another raw must to allow fermentation. The last step consists of blending the newly produced Vino Cotto with different vintages 50 or more years old. This is like following the same process as the balsamic vinegar preparation. The older the Vino Cotto is, the creamier, sweeter, and better it will be.
Continue reading to learn more about this wine. If you are traveling in Italy and would like your own authentic experience with the wine culture, book our Guided Winery Visit in Abruzzo.
Vino cotto, an Abruzzo tradition
In the Teramo province of Abruzzo, this sweet wine is also called ‘Lu Bambinell‘, or simply the baby. According to the tradition, a barrel of Vino Cotto is produced for the newborn baby and then stored until he/she gets married. As a result of many people who never got married, we now also have some very old Vino Cotto, which are secretly stored in the medieval cellars of old locals. Vino Cotto has more value than gold…as a result of the different bandits’ attacks Italy received in history, farmers have walled up or buried bottles and casks of this precious wine. During the last 30 years, many of these old wines have been found around Abruzzo.
Tasting notes & serving suggestions for vino cotto
Bursting with honey, caramel, spices, and ripe fruit, this wine is best served with Cantucci (almond biscuits), chocolate, and coffee desserts. The more it ages, the more creamier and better it gets. Aging and blending with older ‘Vino Cotto’ can date back to 1800.
Fun facts – Did you know?
Did you know that Hannibal also passed through Abruzzo during his invasion of Italy in 216 BC? In addition to its beauty, he found a cure for his ailing elephants and soldiers: Vino Cotto, a 50-year-old sweet wine from Abruzzo! It seemed to work wonders for fighting beasts and fighting men alike.
Do you want to savor a 50-year-old vino cotto?
Discover how the Abruzzese Vino Cotto is produced! Join the ‘Vendemmia’ or grape harvest in Abruzzo and make your own wine!
Discover the hidden mysteries of wine and visit a winemaker during grape harvest season! Contact us for more info. If you are traveling in Italy and would like an authentic and unique cultural experience, book our Guided Winery Visit in Abruzzo. We also offer other Foodie Day Tours in the Abruzzi.
With Love From Abruzzo