Villa Medoro Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Adrano Colline Teramene DOCG 2013

This is a powerful, full-bodied Montepulciano with 14.5% alcohol, ripe tannins from a full year in new French barriques, and a dark fruit with a hint of smoke. That kind of structure thrives with fatty, robust proteins, where the fat softens the tannins, and the tannins in turn cut through the richness. Choose hearty preparations like grilling and slow roasting that match the wine's weight and personality, and feel free to give it a little air in the glass. Steer clear of plain fish dishes and very spicy chili dishes, as the high alcohol and tannin would otherwise push the flavor in a metallic or sharp direction.