Salice Salentino “50° Vendemmia” Riserva DOC 2021

Leone de Castris | Puglia
Leone de Castris | Via Senatore de Castris | IT 73015 Salice Salentino

15062221 · 0,75 l · 15,60 €/lavailable immediately

What began in 2004 as a commemorative wine to mark the 50th harvest of Salice Salentino – Leone de Castris has been producing this Apulian classic since 1954 – became an established tradition thanks to its resounding success. Since then, a new vintage of the "50° Vendemmia" has been released every year. A Riserva that demonstrates how Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera find their powerful yet elegant expression on the red soils of Salento. The blend of 90% Negroamaro and 10% Malvasia Nera di Lecce undergoes an 8- to 12-day maceration at a controlled temperature of 20 to 22 degrees following selective harvest, before the wine is aged for twelve months in 30-hectolitre oak barrels. A further six months of bottle ageing round off the wine's development.

In the glass, it is a deep ruby red. The nose alternates between fruity notes of blackberry and black cherry, and spicy hints of basil and sweet spices, which stem from the barrel ageing. On the palate, the wine is supple and well-balanced, with pronounced but never overpowering tannins. The final is long and persistent – a Salice Salentino that delights from the very first glass, whilst always retaining the typical character of its origin. A versatile accompaniment to hearty meat dishes and mature cheeses. SUPERIORE.DE

"A bright, luminous ruby red. On the nose: precious wood, cold smoke, heart cherries; reminiscent of coffee grounds, not entirely clear in expression. On the palate, however, it is clear and radiant, with hearty tannins and well-integrated acidity, accompanied by ripe cherry fruit that unfolds in several waves – very good value for money for this anniversary wine!" Falstaff

"Intense aromas of dark berries, cherries, liquorice and ink. Medium-bodied with chalky tannins, well-structured and with a rich, supple texture. Robust and almost spicy on the palate, with a finish of cocoa powder." James Suckling