From its mountainous interior to its Adriatic coastline, Abruzzo is not only a beautifully diverse region, but also a significant producer of wine in terms of volume. The region has a warm climate and hillside sites that benefit from their proximity to the radiating effect of the sea. The red Montepulciano variety dominates here and produces a range of styles from soft, juicy and early drinking, through to intense, chocolatey and powerful. Valuing quality over quantity, the best producers are creating fine, often keenly priced wines that offer the freshness, vivacity and lift that can be lacking in this area. In 2003, the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Colline Teramane DOCG was introduced for Montepulciano grapes grown in the hills surrounding Teramo in the northern part of the region.