The colour is a very deep ruby. On the nose, red cherries and wild berries, with hints of Mediterranean herbs such as oregano and rosemary. In the mouth, juicy and vibrant, with a fresh acidity. The tannins are fine and well integrated, giving the wine an elegant structure. The finish is savoury and fruit-driven. The aftertaste is very discreet but stays for a while.
This wine is produced by Cantele winery using Sussumaniello grapes under the broad appellation Puglia IGP denomination.
Susumaniello is an indigenous grape of Puglia in Italy, historically grown mainly in the area around Brindisi. Once nearly forgotten due to its high yields in the early life of the vine, it has been rediscovered for its ability to produce concentrated, characterful wines when carefully managed.
Cantele is a family-owned winery known for combining tradition with a modern, precise winemaking style. The estate has played an important role in the revival of native grape varieties such as Susumaniello, focusing on freshness and varietal expression. Their approach typically emphasizes controlled yields and clean vinification, aiming to highlight the identity of southern Italian grapes without excessive oak influence or extraction.
Puglia IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) is a geographical indication used for wines produced in the region of Puglia, in southern Italy. Wines must come from grapes grown within Puglia, but producers have considerable freedom regarding grape varieties, blends, and winemaking techniques. Because of this flexibility, Puglia IGP covers a very wide range of wines, from simple everyday bottles to more ambitious, terroir-driven expressions.
In practice, Puglia IGP has become an important category for innovation in the region. Many producers use it to experiment with native grapes or modern styles without the stricter constraints of DOC regulations, helping to showcase the evolving identity of southern Italian winemaking.
I bought this bottle in Torre Santa Sabina for 9.80 EUR, while walking from Benevento to Brindisi to complete My Way from Canterbury to Jerusalem.