Montonico Grape and Wine Revival

One of Abruzzo's longest-running festivals

The Montonico Grape and Wine Revival is the autumn event that has brought the historic center of Bisenti to life every October since 1974. Located in the province of Teramo, in the heart of the Abruzzo region hills, the festival is organized by the Pro Loco Bisenti "L. Panzone". It is one of the most deeply rooted and well-attended events in the area, serving as the moment the entire community celebrates its signature product: the Montonico grape and wine.

The Montonico: a native grape and Slow Food Presidium

At the heart of the festival is the Montonico, an ancient white grape variety whose cultivation in Bisenti dates back to 1615. Once widespread throughout Abruzzo and prized as a table grape exported as far as Germany, the Montonico risked extinction before being rediscovered and promoted. Since 2010, it has been recognized under the Abruzzo Montonico DOC designation, and in 2015, it became a Slow Food Presidium. Today, cultivation is concentrated between Bisenti and Cermignano across about 70 hectares, thriving thanks to young winemakers who have restored family vineyards using sustainable practices.

Four days of wine, art, and tradition

The program spans four days, transforming the village into a widespread journey of taste and culture. Recurring highlights include:

• Open cellars and food stalls serving traditional Abruzzo dishes;
• The Carro di Bacco (Chariot of Bacchus) and tasting trails dedicated to Montonico;
• The Yellow Night and White Night, featuring live music, concerts, and entertainment;
• Wine competitions awarding the best still and sparkling Montonico, including the F. Valente Wine Competition;
• Folk group festivals, painting competitions, and the CamminArte exhibition trail;
• Visits to the Montonico Grape and Wine Museum, inaugurated in 2021.

The parade of allegorical floats

The grand finale features the parade of allegorical harvest floats, a tradition that gives the "Revival" its name. Large floats created by local districts and neighborhoods depict scenes of rural life and the winemaking cycle, accompanied by a children's float parade. This is when the entire town takes to the streets, making the event a true community celebration as well as a gastronomic highlight.

Bisenti and the Fino Valley

Nestled in the Fino River valley and traditionally linked to the figure of Pontius Pilate, Bisenti offers visitors an authentic village in the Teramo hinterland, perfect for combining the festival with the discovery of the hilly landscape, local wineries, and Abruzzo cuisine.