Emidio Pepe Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2021

“Emidio Pepe proved to the world the potential, quality, and ageability of grapes from Abruzzo”

“Emidio Pepe, born in 1932, lives by his motto ‘in wine, life’. His respect for his 18 hectares of vineyards, Abruzzo’s traditional winegrowing values, and certified organic and biodynamic techniques results in wines with a distinctive, genuine character. This Trebbiano, trodden by foot, is fermented in concrete vats where it ages for two years. Broom, golden plum and white pepper aromas lead to a delightfully savoury, full-bodied mouth, vibrant with vintage charm and pleasing balance.” - Decanter 94

Vinous 93

About The Winery

Emidio Pepe is one of the most respected and iconic family-run producers in Abruzzo, Italy, with a history deeply rooted in the region’s winemaking tradition. The estate traces its origins back to the Pepe family making wine in 1889, and in 1964 Emidio Pepe formally founded the winery after years of learning from his father and grandfather. From the beginning, he believed passionately in the aging potential of the region’s indigenous grapes - Montepulciano and Trebbiano - and dedicated his life to proving their quality on the world stage. The winery remains a multi-generational family enterprise. Since the late 1990s, Emidio’s daughters Daniela and Sofia have taken increasing responsibility for running the estate, and more recently the fifth generation, including Chiara de Iulis Pepe has become involved. Emidio himself, born in 1932, has remained actively connected to the vineyards and the cellar well into his later years.

Vinification

Emidio Pepe produces wines from three indigenous varietals that define the region: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo and Pecorino, as well as the local rosé style Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo. 

The estate’s approach is highly traditional and artisanal.Grapes are hand-picked, white varieties are foot-crushed in wooden tubs and red grapes are hand destemmed, with fermentation and ageing carried out in glass-lined concrete vessels rather than new oak, in order to preserve purity of fruit and terroir expression.

Fermentations are spontaneous, wines are aged for extended periods before release, and bottled wines are often decanted and re-corked by hand as part of quality control. 

On the nose, this Montepulciano reveals expressive aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, and plum, layered with notes of herbs, earth, and gentle spice. The palate is rich, vibrant, and beautifully textured, offering flavors of ripe dark fruits, subtle minerality, and natural freshness supported by smooth tannins and lively acidity. The finish is long, elegant, and persistent, leaving lingering impressions of fruit and earthy complexity.

Best served at cellar temperature and decanted before serving, Emidio Pepe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, pasta with rich sauces, grilled vegetables, and aged cheeses. Its balance and depth make it ideal for both special occasions and refined dining experiences.

Whether you’re enjoying dinner in City Walk Dubai or hosting friends in Al Mushrif Abu Dhabi, Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2021 is an exceptional choice. With CityDrinks, the UAE’s leading online liquor store, you can have this iconic Italian wine delivered straight to your door in just two hours.