Wines Unspecified Cantine Paradiso - 1954 - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Cantine Paradiso's Cuvée 1954 2022, hailing from the sun-drenched region of Puglia in southern Italy, is an inviting red wine typical of the area's generous and expressive character. Although details about the exact blend are not specified, Puglia is famed for its robust indigenous varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Nero di Troia, which often form the backbone of local red cuvées. The 2022 vintage benefited from a warm, dry season, allowing for optimal ripening and producing wines with generous fruit, balanced by supple tannins. Vinification methods in the region often favour stainless steel to preserve fruit purity, sometimes complemented by brief oak maturation to add complexity.

Puglia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with abundant sunshine, moderate rainfall, and cooling breezes from the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Its fertile soils, ranging from clay-limestone mixes to red ferrous earth, impart depth and a certain warmth to the wines, resulting in reds that are both approachable and satisfyingly structured. Historically, this region has been known as the "wine cellar of Italy," but recent decades have seen a shift towards quality-focused production, with estates like Cantine Paradiso championing the potential of native grape varieties and modern winemaking techniques.

Cuvée 1954’s generous profile and supple tannins make it a perfect partner for richly flavoured dishes. Traditional Apulian fare such as orecchiette alle cime di rapa (pasta with broccoli rabe and anchovies) or a classic lamb ragù complement the wine’s fruitiness. It pairs equally well with wood-fired pizzas, grilled sausages, or hard, aged cheeses such as pecorino. The wine’s depth also holds up beautifully alongside barbecued meats, making it a versatile choice for casual gatherings or more elaborate meals.

To enjoy this wine at its best, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for about half an hour can further enhance its fruit and integrate any youthful tannins, offering a rounded, satisfying drinking experience. This is a wine that speaks both of its land and of an enduring southern Italian warmth.