Wines Rosso Canosa Cantine di Ora - Amicale - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Rosso Canosa DOC 2020 from Cantine di Ora is an engaging red wine crafted from a blend known as Cuvée Amicale. While the precise varietal proportions are proprietary, the blend typical to the appellation generally includes grape varieties such as Nero di Troia, Montepulciano and sometimes Sangiovese. The 2020 vintage displays the vibrancy and balance that mark a well-made southern Italian red. Vinification often takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve the freshness of the fruit, with brief maturation that enhances the wine’s supple tannic structure while retaining expressive aromatics. Expect a luminous ruby hue, aromas of ripe black cherries, plum, wild berries, hints of Mediterranean herbs and sweet spice, all carried by a medium-bodied palate with lively acidity and a pleasant, gently tannic finish.

The Puglia region, or Apulia, stretches along the sun-drenched heel of Italy. Rich in history, the region was once a key grain supplier for the Roman Empire, and its winemaking heritage dates back thousands of years. The terroir of Canosa di Puglia is marked by calcareous clay soils and a warm Mediterranean climate, moderated by breezes from the Adriatic and Ionian seas. These conditions favour the thriving cultivation of robust indigenous grapes—especially Nero di Troia, notable for its depth and peppery complexity. The result is wines of significant personality, brightly fruited yet structured, which mirror the landscape’s rugged beauty.

In terms of food pairings, this Rosso Canosa shines alongside hearty Mediterranean cuisine. Traditional matches include orecchiette with duck ragù, slow-cooked lamb with aromatic herbs, or polpette al sugo—meatballs simmered in tomato sauce. For a local touch, enjoy with Caciocavallo cheese or a rustic Puglian focaccia topped with olives and cherry tomatoes. The wine’s acidity and supple structure also make it agreeable with grilled vegetables or aubergine parmigiana.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C. Open the bottle 30 minutes before tasting to fully appreciate the aromatic complexity and allow the tannins to soften. This temperature highlights both the wine’s freshness and its gentle, spicy depth.