Masseria Li Veli, Salento IGT (Puglia, Italy) Susumaniello 2015

This Susumaniello is from the Falvo family’s Askos project dedicated to discovering and growing endangered, ancient, indigenous grape varieties of Puglia.  They grow head-pruned vines in a settonce pattern developed by the Romans.  In the winery they use modern winemaking techniques such as délestage and circulation pumping for color and flavor extraction and cooler temperature fermentation to preserve fruitiness.  The wine spends nine months in 500 and 225 liter barrels.  The wine is deliciously juicy with bright raspberry, cherry fruit laced with anise, round and luscious in the mouth.  Crisp acidity keeps it fresh, while the grapes’ sturdy tannins keeps it firm.