📍 Molise

Molise is a small mountainous region in the south of central Italy, between Abruzzo, Campania and Apulia. It is one of the smallest regions of the country. A narrow strip reaches the Adriatic Sea, while most of it consists of hills and Apennine mountains.

The best-known local grape is the red Tintilia. It nearly disappeared but was revived, and today there is a separate appellation, Tintilia del Molise. Montepulciano, Trebbiano, Greco and other grapes are grown as well. Red, white, rosé and sparkling wines are made.

The main zones are Biferno, Pentro di Isernia, Osco and Rotae. The climate is moderate, mild on the coast and cooler in the mountains.

Molise was long regarded as part of Abruzzo until it became a separate region in 1963. Its wines are still less famous than those of its neighbours, but interest in them is growing. Local wines suit lamb dishes, sausages and cheeses from mountain pastures. The name Molise on a label shows that the grapes grew in this very area, which makes it easy to look for similar wines.