Salice Salentino Riserva (2006)

About this wine

The 2006 Càntele Salice Salentino Riserva is a deep ruby red wine that has developed garnet hues over time. It offers aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, and cherries, complemented by subtle notes of tobacco and leather. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and well-structured, with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of earthiness. The tannins are firm yet smooth, providing a balanced and lingering finish. This wine is made primarily from the Negroamaro grape, a variety native to Italy's Puglia region, known for producing wines with rich flavors and aging potential.

About the grape

Negroamaro is a dark-skinned grape variety native to southern Italy, particularly the Salento peninsula in Puglia. Its name translates to 'black and bitter,' reflecting its deep color and distinctive flavor profile. This grape has been cultivated in the region for centuries, with some theories suggesting it was introduced by Greek colonists as early as the 7th century BC. In the production of Salice Salentino wines, Negroamaro is often blended with Malvasia Nera, which adds softness and aromatic complexity, balancing the robust character of Negroamaro.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The name 'Negroamaro' translates to 'black bitter' in Italian, reflecting the grape's deep color and slightly bitter taste.
• 🏺 Negroamaro is believed to have been introduced to Italy by Greek settlers around the 7th century BC, making it one of the oldest grape varieties in the region.
• 🏅 The Salice Salentino DOC, established in 1976, is renowned for producing high-quality wines primarily from the Negroamaro grape.
• ☀️ Negroamaro is known for its resilience to hot, dry climates, thriving in the arid conditions of Southern Italy's Puglia region.
• 🍷 The grape's thick skin contributes to the wine's deep color and robust tannins, making it suitable for aging and blending with other varieties.

Palate profile

Producer

Càntele Winery was founded in 1979 by brothers Augusto and Domenico Càntele in Guagnano, Salento, Italy. The family's journey began in the 1950s when their parents, Giovanni Battista Càntele and Teresa Manara, relocated from northern Italy to Puglia, drawn by the region's potential for viticulture. Initially focusing on bottling, the winery expanded in the 1990s by acquiring vineyards and establishing its own winemaking facilities. Today, the third generation, including Gianni, Paolo, Umberto, and Luisa, continues to uphold the family's commitment to quality and innovation in winemaking.