This small, family winery is located high in the plains near L’Aquila. Founded in 1920 by Antonio Cataldi Madonna, the winery is now run by son Luigi who produces some of Abruzzo’s best reds, whites, and roses. Starting from the 2012 vintage, Malandrino represents the entry level Montepulciano d’Abruzzo for Cataldi Madonna. This wine is produced from grapes grown in six vineyards in Ofena, the “oven of Abruzzo”. Malandrino means a rascal or to be naughty. The name was selected during a dinner with friends at the winery.
Deep ruby red color and nuances of ruby red, little transparency. The bouquet on the nose is intense, clean and pleasing, with aromas of black cherry, blueberry, plum, carob and violet followed by pleasing aromas of walnut-husk. On the palate it is balanced, with agreeable tannins, good body and intense flavors; persistent finish with flavors of black cherry and plum.