What is Molise’s ranking in size and population among Italian regions?
It’s Italy’s second smallest and second least populated region (after Valle d’Aosta).
Between which two larger regions is Molise located?
Between Puglia and Abruzzo.
On which coast is Molise located?
The Adriatic coast.
What proportion of Molise’s territory is mountainous?
More than half.
Which mountain range dominates Molise’s landscape?
The Southern Apennines.
What is Molise’s principal river and where does it flow?
The Biferno River, flowing northeast into the Adriatic Sea.
How does Molise’s climate vary between coast and inland?
The coast has a Mediterranean climate, while inland and higher elevations are more continental.
What are the main soil types in Molise?
Clay and sand near the coast; limestone and marl inland and in the west.
What proportion of Molise’s vineyards is planted to red grape varieties?
Over 70%.
Which red grape dominates Molise’s vineyards?
Montepulciano (49%).
Which other grape varieties are present next to montepulciano according to the pie chart?
Cabernet Sauvignon (8%), Trebbiano Abruzzese (6%), Trebbiano Toscano (4%), Tintilia (2%), and others (26%).
What is Molise’s unique flagship grape variety?
Tintilia (red).
When was Tintilia del Molise DOC created?
2011
Why did Tintilia lose ground historically?
It was not very productive and was traditionally blended with Montepulciano.
What is Tintilia del Molise DOC geographically known for?
It’s a geographically large DOC covering most of central and eastern Molise.
What is the minimum percentage of Tintilia required in Tintilia del Molise DOC wines?
A minimum of 95% Tintilia.
What are the ageing requirements for Tintilia del Molise DOC riserva wines?
At least 2 years of ageing and a minimum alcohol of 13% abv (vs 11.5% for regular wines).
