Wines Salice Salentino Selvarossa dei Confratelli - Rosso Riserva - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Selvarossa dei Confratelli 2021 hails from the Salice Salentino DOC in the heart of Puglia, southern Italy. This bold red wine is a Riserva, meaning it has undergone extended ageing, lending it additional complexity and structure. Predominantly featuring Negroamaro, often blended with Malvasia Nera, the wine is deeply coloured, and offers intense aromas of ripe dark cherries, plum preserves and a touch of Mediterranean herbs, layered with subtle spices and a gentle hint of earthiness. The 2021 vintage, benefiting from excellent ripening conditions, gives a plush, concentrated mouthfeel supported by supple tannins and a warmth that echoes the region’s sun-drenched climate.

The Salice Salentino DOC spans the sun-soaked plains of southern Puglia, a region celebrated for turning heat, sea breezes and fertile soils into expressive wines. The region’s hot Mediterranean climate favours late-ripening grapes like Negroamaro, which develop richness and depth without sacrificing freshness, thanks to the cooling influence of the nearby Adriatic and Ionian seas. The soils here, typically a mix of clay and limestone, help retain vital moisture through the dry summers, imparting structure and a subtle minerality to the wines. With a winemaking tradition stretching back centuries, Salice Salentino stands out for crafting robust yet balanced reds that offer both character and approachability.

Given its full-bodied and harmonious profile, Selvarossa dei Confratelli 2021 lends itself beautifully to hearty, flavourful dishes. It pairs particularly well with traditional Puglian cuisine such as orecchiette with ragù di carne, lamb stew with herbs, or aubergine parmigiana. For a broader Italian table, osso buco, roasted game, or rich pecorino and aged cheeses complement the wine’s fruit and spice notes.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine an hour before serving to let the aromas fully expand. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to preserve its freshness and balance, ensuring every nuance of its southern Italian soul is revealed in your glass.