ASSINA Susumaniello Salento IGP 2021

"Assina" Susumaniello Salento IGP 2021 / San Donaci / Puglia
Red wine from Italy

The Salento, a peninsula in southern Apulia, is an important wine-growing area in Italy. Red wine is mainly grown here, with the Primitivo, Negroamaro and Susumaniello varieties dominating. Viticulture in Salento is characterized by a long tradition that goes back to ancient times. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The soils are calcareous and rich in minerals, which gives the wines their special minerality. The vineyards in Salento are often planted in the so-called Alberello training, in which the vines grow as small trees without supports. This method allows the grapes to ripen better in the hot sun and gives the wines a higher concentration of aromas and tannins. Viticulture in Salento is an important part of the culture and economy of the region and the wines from this area are now among the best in Italy.

The Cantina San Donaci is based in the Apulian town of the same name, San Donaci. Here in the center of the city triangle of Taranto, Brindisi, and Lecce, it was founded in 1933 by twelve winegrowers. Over time, more and more farmers joined the idea of joining forces, so that today about three hundred members have their grapes refined into wine by the Cantina San Donaci. Today Cantina San Donaci uses highly innovative technologies to further improve the excellent organoleptic and qualitative characteristics of the wines, thus enhancing the typical flavours and aromas.

The "Assina" Susumaniello Salento IGP from Cantina San Donaci is a varietal red wine made from the Susumaniello grape variety, which is still rarely cultivated. This autochthonous red wine variety, which has experienced a renaissance in recent years, is mainly found in the south of Apulia. The variety is considered late-ripening and low-yielding, which leads to a high concentration of aromas and tannins in the wine. The grapes are small, thick-skinned and have a high juice content and are perfectly adapted to the climatic and geographical conditions of southern Italy.

After careful harvesting, the bunches of grapes are destemmed and pressed. Then the mash fermentation takes place. Here, the grapes with their skins and seeds are placed in a fermentation tank. The contact with the air causes the grapes to ferment, resulting in the conversion of sugar into alcohol. During fermentation, the temperature and pH are regularly controlled by the cellar master to achieve the desired result. Once fermentation is complete, the young wine is drawn off and aged in stainless steel.

The "Assina" Susumaniello Salento IGP shines in the glass with an intense ruby red colour. In the nose there are fruity aromas of dark berries such as blackberries and black currants. In the background, nuances of spices and herbs can also be guessed at. The taste of this rare red wine is dry, very velvety, warm, and long-lasting. The tannins are easily recognizable and elegantly integrated into the overall impression.

When Susumaniello is young and rich in tannins, decanting can be a measure to aerate the wine, allowing it to perfectly unfold its aromas. Give the wine at least 30 minutes to breathe in a decanter before serving. At a recommended drinking temperature between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius, the "Assina" Susumaniello Salento IGP from Cantina San Donaci then unleashes its full potential and pairs excellently with a variety of dishes. Its pronounced structure and multi-layered flavour profile complement oven-baked pasta, pasta with rich sauces, as well as various meat dishes such as grilled beef, lamb, pork, and game. Moreover, it is an ideal accompaniment to mature cheeses like Pecorino, Parmesan, or blue cheese. The salty and savoury aromas of the cheese perfectly harmonize with the structure and taste of the wine. Additionally, Susumaniello can showcase its qualities as a companion to chocolate desserts or dark berries such as blackberries or blueberries. If you seek a moment of relaxation, Susumaniello is an ideal companion in the company of friends or while indulging in a good book. Take your time to explore and appreciate the complex aromas and tannin structure of this delightful wine.

General properties

• Vintage: 2021
• Ageing: Dry
• Country: Italy
• Region: Apulia
• Volume: 0.75 litres

Detailed properties

• Producer and bottler: Cantina San Donaci - Via Mesagne 62 - 72025 San Donaci (Brindisi) - Italia - +39 0831 681005
• Quality Designation: Indicazione Geografica Protetta (IGP)
• Grape variety: 100% Susumaniello.
  
• Production area: The production area of the grapes for this wine is located in Salento on clay mixed soil around the village of San Donaci.
• Soil type and training system: On medium mixed soils with the Apulian freestanding system (Alberello).
  
• Vinification: Traditional red wine making. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats. After fermentation, the wine is only stored in stainless steel tanks until it is bottled.
  
• Sensory characteristics: Bouquet with fruity aromas of dark berries. Subtle nuances of spices and herbs. Dry on the palate, very velvety, warm and long-lasting. Nicely integrated tannins.
  
• Colour: Intense ruby red.
  
• Alcohol content: 13.0 % Vol.
• Type of closure: Natural cork.
• How to serve: Oven-baked pasta, rich pasta dishes, grilled meat, mature cheeses, chocolate desserts, and dark berries. Excellent wine for contemplation.
  
• Recommended serving temperature: Between 16 and 18°C. Decant 30 minutes before consumption.
• Allergens: Contains sulphites.
• EAN (bottle): 8023909034114
• Scope of supply: 1 bottle of wine 0.75 litres.

Grape variety

SUSUMANIELLO

The Susumaniello, an indigenous grape variety, finds its home primarily in the picturesque southern Italian region of Apulia, especially around the cities of Brindisi and Taranto. For many centuries, this vine has been cultivated here, albeit mostly in modest quantities and often alongside other grape varieties. However, in recent years, Susumaniello has experienced a veritable renaissance. Passionate winemakers and oenological pioneers in Apulia recognized the hidden potential of this forgotten grape variety and began deliberately cultivating and vinifying Susumaniello to explore its unique characteristics and flavours. Susumaniello vines typically stand out for their robustness and upright growth habit. They can reach considerable heights and often require suitable trellis or support systems to aid their growth and promote grape ventilation. The leaves of the Susumaniello plant are medium-sized and have a slightly oval shape. They are dark green and glossy, with slightly serrated edges. The grapes are large and exhibit a loose cluster structure. The berries are also of considerable size and have a thick, dark skin. Depending on their ripeness, their colour palette ranges from deep violet to blackish blue. Susumaniello is a late-ripening grape variety, meaning that the grapes are harvested late in the autumn. This late harvest allows for an extended ripening phase during which the grapes can develop optimal flavours and tannins. The Susumaniello plant thrives best in warm and dry climates. Particularly in the Salento areas of Apulia, it finds ideal conditions for its growth. The soils in this region are often calcareous and well-draining, which is crucial for the development of healthy vines. Wines made from Susumaniello grapes can exhibit a wide range of flavours, including dark fruits such as blackberries and black cherries, accompanied by spicy notes like black pepper and Mediterranean herbs. A well-made Susumaniello wine can offer an intense flavour profile with balanced acidity and mature tannins.

Protection of minors: We deliver this article only to adults of unlimited legal capacity and reserve the right to demand appropriate proof of age. The data required for the order, such as name, address, etc., must be provided in full and truthfully.