Wines Susumaniello Salento Ballaturi - 2024

Viniou Reviews

Ballaturi Salento IGT 2024 is a red wine produced in the heart of the Apulia region in southern Italy. This wine, crafted under the Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) of Salento, typically originates from indigenous grape varieties such as Negroamaro or Primitivo, which are emblematic of this Mediterranean region. The 2024 vintage is expected to offer a youthful vibrancy, showcasing a deep ruby colour and expressive notes of ripe blackberries, plums, and subtle spice, thanks to a vinification process that emphasises freshness and fruit-forward character. The wine’s structure is likely medium-bodied with soft tannins, allowing immediate enjoyment while retaining a touch of southern Italian generosity.

The Apulia region, and specifically Salento, is renowned for its sun-drenched landscapes and caressing maritime breezes from the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. The terroir here is marked by a combination of red clay and limestone soils, which encourage good drainage and contribute to the natural concentration of the grapes. This region boasts a long viticultural history, having been shaped by Greek and Roman influences, and today stands as one of Italy’s most dynamic wine-producing areas. The warm, dry climate guarantees perfectly ripe fruit, resulting in wines that are intense yet approachable and rich in southern warmth.

For food pairings, Ballaturi Salento IGT 2024 will shine alongside grilled meats such as lamb chops or pork sausages, as well as rich tomato-based pasta dishes—a classic orecchiette with beef ragù would highlight the wine’s supple heart. Salento’s own cuisine suggests matching the wine with local favourites like “braciole” (beef rolls in tomato sauce) or aubergine parmigiana, where the wine’s fruit and gentle acidity can elegantly complement Mediterranean flavours.

To enjoy this wine at its best, serve it slightly cool, ideally between 16-18°C. A brief decanting of 20-30 minutes will help the bouquet to open up and soften the youthful tannins, allowing the full aromatic richness of the Salento sunshine to emerge in the glass.