Wines Salice Salentino Duepalme - Montecoco - 2019

Cuvée Montecoco 2019 from Cantine Due Palme is a compelling red wine hailing from the Salice Salentino DOC, a renowned appellation in Apulia (the heel of Italy’s boot). This cuvée is typically crafted from the region’s signature grape, Negroamaro, often blended with a touch of Malvasia Nera to enhance aromatic complexity and soften the tannins. The 2019 vintage benefits from a warm, sun-drenched growing season, yielding grapes of optimal ripeness. Due Palme employs a careful vinification process that balances traditional maceration with modern stainless-steel techniques, preserving the intense, ripe fruit character while ensuring a smooth, harmonious palate. Expect a nose laden with notes of black cherry, plum and Mediterranean herbs, enveloped by subtle hints of sweet spices and cocoa, leading to a palate that is full-bodied yet supple, with velvety tannins and a lingering, spicy finish.

The Salice Salentino area occupies a privileged position within Apulia, benefiting from the confluence of Adriatic and Ionian breezes. The terroir is distinguished by its red, iron-rich soils overlaying limestone, lending wines notable depth and mineral freshness. Apulia itself boasts a long winemaking history dating back to Magna Graecia, with local traditions rooted in robust reds made for both local consumption and export. The region’s Mediterranean climate, defined by hot, dry summers and mild winters, combined with the natural aptitude of Negroamaro, enables the production of structured yet accessible wines with an unmistakable southern warmth.

This generous red pairs beautifully with hearty Apulian cuisine. Consider matching it with orecchiette alle cime di rapa (pasta with turnip tops), rustic lamb stew, or grilled sausages flavoured with fennel seed. It would also excel with roasted aubergine or a rich ragù, and can hold its own alongside mature cheeses such as Pecorino or aged Caciocavallo. For an authentic regional experience, serve with a platter of antipasti featuring sun-dried tomatoes, olives and cured meats.

For optimal appreciation, decant the wine for about thirty minutes before serving to allow its aromas to open up fully. This Salice Salentino is best enjoyed at a serving temperature of 16-18°C, which will highlight its fruity intensity and velvety structure.