A Mano Susumaniello 2021
The grapes for the A Mano Susumaniello are grown in vineyards located in the Salento peninsula of Puglia. A rare and ancient red Puglian grape variety, Susumaniello was used mostly as a blending component until a few years ago. The name means 'little donkey' in local dialect, from the enormous load the vines bear when young, although others say that it is so called because it is stubborn and difficult to manage. The Susumaniello grapes were rigorously sorted to ensure only those in pristine condition were vinified. Once at the winery, they were sorted again and cold fermented in stainless-steel tanks with very gentle pump-overs, to avoid over-extraction of the aggressive tannins characteristic of this variety. Post fermentation, the final blend was bottled without fining. Deep, inky purple-black in colour, this wine has intense aromas of blackberry, blueberry and chocolate, supported by notes of violets, blossom and Mediterranean herbs. This is a full-bodied and well-structured wine with powerful yet fine tannins. A fantastic freshness carries through the persistent finish.
