Masi's Rosso Canosa 2014, hailing from the sun-drenched region of Puglia in southern Italy, presents an intriguing bottle, particularly for those drawn to the robust and generous reds for which the area is famed. The vintage suggests a wine with some maturity, bringing softened tannins and layered complexity to the fore. While the blend is labelled here as "Cuvée Campofiorin," typically associated with Masi’s Veneto wines, it is likely this bottle expresses the southern Italian style, perhaps combining indigenous grapes such as Nero di Troia, Primitivo, or Montepulciano, though the exact cépage remains uncertain. Expect ripe dark fruit—think black cherries and plums—against a savoury, earthy backdrop, with possible hints of dried herbs, leather, and a touch of spice. The dryness (sec) ensures a food-friendly character, bolstered by the warmth of the 2014 season.
Puglia, a region deeply rooted in wine history and tradition, is known for its gently rolling hills and sunlit plains that stretch towards the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The hot, arid climate combined with calcareous and clay-rich soils provide ideal conditions for producing generous, ripely fruited reds that balance concentration with freshness. Historically, Puglia was long valued for its robust blending wines, but today its best bottles, often from smaller appellations such as Canosa, stand proudly on their own with distinctly regional personalities.
This style of Puglian red shines alongside hearty, rustic cuisine. Traditional pairings might include lamb roasted with Mediterranean herbs, orecchiette with a rich beef ragù, or slow-cooked aubergines with tomato and pecorino. The wine’s depth and matured character also work beautifully with aged cheeses or even pizza with cured meats.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour to allow its evolved aromas to unfold, then serve at 16–18°C. This temperature highlights the wine’s structure and nuance, while keeping the fruit expressive and fresh.
