A microscopic 85-hectare zone tucked inside of the greater Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC, Villamagna is named for the medieval village of the same name and sits squarely between the Majella Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. "Extreme" is best way to describe the difference between wines from this DOC and those from the greater Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC A mentholated freshness lifts crushed black cherries and cedar shavings as the 2018 Villamagna Riserva unfolds in the glass. This is a silky and refined effort with mineral-tinged red and blue fruits that swirl throughout as a core of brisk acidity maintains a lovely freshness. It’s tannic and structured, yet long and potent, flexing its tannic muscle as salted licorice traces taper off with a cranberry crunch. Nicely done. (reviewed at $80)" - Eric Guido, Vinous Media 8/23
