Like many European wine regions, Puglia has several different quality levels which overlap when shown on a map. In general, the lower quality regions (IGP in the map above) are the largest in area and the highest quality regions are the smallest (DOCG).
In a recent post on Puglian wines I reviewed two red wines which were quite rich and even a little sweetness, so perfect for barbecues. They were both IGT wines from Salento; now we have two DOC wines which are still fruity a little more serious:
Disclosure: bottles were kindly provided as samples, but opinions remain my own
Marchese di Borgosole Salice Salentino Riserva 2016
The grapes for this wine – over 85% Negroamaro – are fully destemmed before undergoing seven to eight days maceration. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentation take place in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks, with 24 months maturation mixed between tank and wooden barrels.
In the glass this wine is still dark in the body but is already a little light at the rim. The nose has wonderful bramble fruit and exotic spice. The palate is all about fresh morello cherry and raspberry, giving a pleasant tartness, and rich black fruits. The body is full but not huge, and fine tannins help to give a savoury edge.
This is a lovely example of Salice Salentino, an easy drinking wine which is well put together.
- ABV: 13.0%
- RRP: €17.95
- Stockists: Boutique Wines, Mortons Ranelagh; Listons Camden Street; Barnhill Stores, Dalkey; La Touche, Greystones; Gleesons, Booterstown; Molloys Liquor Stores; The Old Orchard Off Licence, Rathfarnham
Corte Ottone Brindisi Riserva 2016
From Salice Salentino we head slightly north to Brindisi. Vinification is similar to its southern neighbour except that the 24 months maturation is entirely in wood. Negroamaro is again the principal grape, backed up by Malvasia Nera and Sangiovese.
The nose has sweet – ripe, not sugary – black fruit such as blackberry and black cherry, with some hints of wild herbs. The palate has a nervous energy to it; tart cherry and cranberry and lively raspberry plus some exotic spice and cedarwood. The acidity is marked and thus the wine remains fresh. This would be great with some charcuterie or tomato based dishes.
- ABV: 13.0%
- RRP: €17.95
- Stockists: Boutique Wines, Mortons Ranelagh; Listons Camden Street; Barnhill Stores, Dalkey; La Touche, Greystones; Gleesons, Booterstown; Molloys Liquor Stores; The Old Orchard Off Licence, Rathfarnham
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