Tenute Rubino, Brindisi Rosso DOC (Puglia, Italy) Susumaniello 2019

 When was the last time you had a wine made from Susumaniello?  Well, here is your opportunity from the Puglia region of southern Italy.  Made by the Rubino family, it offers a dense, dark ruby-purple color, rich black cherry, blackberry aromas with a touch of wood spice and dark chocolate.  The black fruits are rich and juicy in the mouth, encouraged by lively acidity and sturdy, dusty tannins.  I was introduced to this deliciously charming grape variety while visiting Tenute Rubino in the Puglia in southern Italy a few years ago.  The Rubino family acquired Susumaniello vines along with several other varieties when they purchased a vineyard in the 1980s.  Luigi Rubino recognized a potential star for the region and has made it a goal to have Susumaniello considered the flagship wine of the area.  Their website’s home page boasts “La Casa del Susumaniello.”