Cantina Terre d'Erce: The Heart of Abruzzo Wine Country

Located along the Adriatic coast in the province of Chieti, Cantina Terre d'Erce represents a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Born from the vision of Salvatore Sabatini and carried forward by the new generations of the Sabatini family, this boutique winery has quickly established itself as a true gem of the Abruzzo region. With vineyards overlooking the sea and hills embracing the wild Sinello River valley, Terre d'Erce produces wines that tell the story of the land and its passion. From the bold intensity of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo to the bright freshness of Pecorino, each label reflects meticulous vineyard management and sustainable practices. In this post, we invite you to discover the origins, terroir, winemaking philosophy, and visitor experiences that make Cantina Terre d'Erce a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast.

The Origins of Terre d'Erce

The story of Cantina Terre d'Erce begins with the deep connection of the Sabatini family to the land of Vasto. For generations, the family has cultivated high-quality grapes on the gentle hills near Punta Ardeci, a natural promontory now protected as a reserve dedicated to preserving its unique flora and fauna. Despite this longstanding viticultural heritage, the estate’s grapes were historically sold to third-party producers. It was only in recent years, under the guidance of Salvatore Sabatini and his children, that these vineyards gave birth to a proprietary line of wines under the Terre d'Erce label. This fundamental shift allowed the family to capture the full expression of their terroir, controlling every stage from vineyard to bottle and ensuring each vintage reflects the unique character of their coastal slopes and inland valleys.

The Unique Terroir of Vasto

The vineyards of Terre d'Erce are uniquely positioned where the mountains meet the sea, offering the vines a continuous exchange of marine breezes and mineral-rich soils. The proximity to the Adriatic Sea moderates temperatures throughout the growing season, reducing extremes and allowing for a longer ripening period. Below ground, a mosaic of limestone, clay, and sandy deposits gives both structure and finesse to the grapes, contributing to the elegance of varieties like Falanghina and Cerasuolo. Additionally, select plots in the inland Sinello River valley benefit from cooler nights, which help preserve the natural acidity of Pecorino and Pecorino-based sparkling wines. Together, these diverse microclimates produce grapes of exceptional balance, vitality, and complexity—hallmarks of the Terre d'Erce portfolio.

Sustainable Viticulture and Winemaking Practices

Sustainability and respect for the environment are at the heart of every decision at Cantina Terre d'Erce. The estate avoids intensive chemical interventions, instead opting for organic soil management techniques that promote biodiversity and soil health. Cover crops and targeted canopy management encourage beneficial insects and regulate vine vigor, while hand harvesting ensures only perfectly ripe clusters are selected. In the cellar, a gravity-flow design minimizes mechanical stress on the grapes, and temperature-controlled fermentations preserve varietal aromas. Aging takes place in a combination of stainless steel and well-seasoned oak barrels, a strategy that balances freshness with subtle wood integration. These thoughtful practices reflect the family’s philosophy: that great wine is born in the vineyard and thrives when nature is allowed to guide the process.

Wine Portfolio: Signature Labels

At the core of Terre d'Erce’s offerings is the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOP, exemplified by La Paurosa and the namesake Terre d'Erce Montepulciano. Hand-harvested and vinified with minimal intervention, these wines display deep ruby hues, notes of cherry, plum, and a hint of licorice, culminating in a velvety finish that pairs beautifully with red meats and aged cheeses. The white wine side of the portfolio shines with Pecorino Terre di Chieti IGT, whose crisp acidity and delicate pear and citrus aromas make it both refreshing and versatile. The estate's sparkling wines under the Velico label, including the Spumante Pecorino Brut, celebrate the native Pecorino grape in its most effervescent form, offering fine bubbles and a fragrant bouquet ideal for aperitifs or seafood starters. Each release represents a chapter in the ongoing narrative of Abruzzo’s rich winemaking heritage.

The flagship wines also include Mottagrossa, a Pecorino IGT made from hand-harvested and selected grapes from young vines. The must, gently pressed, undergoes cold static clarification and is fermented at controlled temperatures to enhance the sensory qualities of this outstanding native varietal. The Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo DOC is also made from 100% Montepulciano grapes, with the must undergoing brief skin contact before cold static clarification to produce this fresh and fruity wine. The lineup is rounded out with Falanghina Terre di Chieti IGT, made from 100% Falanghina grapes.

Visiting the Winery: Tours and Tastings

A visit to Cantina Terre d'Erce is more than an opportunity to taste exceptional wines—it’s an immersion into the world of the family. Located at Via Torre Sinello 31 in Vasto, the winery welcomes guests to explore its modern cellar and meticulously cared-for vineyards. Tours begin with a walk among the vines, guided by knowledgeable hosts who share insights into the estate’s sustainable practices and terroir-driven philosophy. Back in the tasting room, visitors are invited to enjoy a curated selection of wines, paired with locally sourced cured meats and aged cheeses that showcase Abruzzo’s culinary traditions. The intimate setting, warm hospitality, and panoramic Adriatic views make every visit both educational and convivial.

Events and Collaborations

Cantina Terre d'Erce frequently participates in regional wine festivals and collaborates with local chefs and artisans to celebrate the culinary landscape of Abruzzo. From harvest dinners under the stars to pop-up tastings in historic locations across Italy, the estate seeks to create meaningful connections between wine, food, and community. Notably, the winery has received recognition in the ViniBuoni d’Italia Guide by the Touring Club Italiano, showcasing standout vintages in the 2019 edition. These events not only introduce new audiences to Terre d'Erce wines but also reinforce the estate’s commitment to cultural and environmental stewardship.

Practical Information for Visiting

To contact Cantina Terre d'Erce, visitors can call +39 328 627 8673 or email info@terrederce.it. The winery is located at Via Torre Sinello 31, 66054 Vasto (CH), Abruzzo. It is advisable to book tastings in advance to ensure the best possible experience. The property is fully accessible for people with disabilities, with gender-neutral restrooms and pet-friendly policies that welcome dogs both outdoors and indoors in designated areas. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious beginner, the estate’s team guarantees a warm and informative experience tailored to every palate.

Conclusion: A Toast to the Future

Cantina Terre d'Erce is a vibrant expression of Abruzzo’s winemaking potential, where ancient soils meet modern vision. The Sabatini family’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and hospitality has transformed a longstanding tradition into an inspiring venture that continues to evolve. As the estate moves forward, plans for vineyard expansion and innovative wine projects promise to further enrich its portfolio. Whether you join a tasting by the sea or discover a Terre d'Erce bottle at a specialty retailer, each sip offers a glimpse into the passion and provenance that define this exceptional winery. We invite you to experience the spirit of Abruzzo through the wines of Cantina Terre d'Erce—cheers!