Wines Susumaniello Salento Cantine De Falco - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Cantine De Falco’s 2023 Salento IGT is a vibrant red wine from Italy’s sun-drenched Puglia region, celebrated for bold wines with plenty of character. While the precise blend isn’t specified here, most Salento reds are crafted predominantly from indigenous varieties such as Primitivo and Negroamaro. These grapes thrive in the region’s hot Mediterranean climate and stony, mineral-rich soils, producing wines known for their deep colour, ripe tannins and pronounced fruit flavours. The 2023 vintage is likely to express youthful freshness and bright acidity, with notes of black cherry, plum and subtle spices often complemented by hints of Mediterranean herbs. Vinification in the region typically focuses on preserving the vibrant fruit and structure of these local varieties, often with a moderate use of oak to allow the grapes’ typicity to shine through.

Puglia, in southern Italy, enjoys a warm, dry climate with cooling breezes from both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The Salento subregion, forming the heel of Italy’s boot, benefits from long, hot summers that help grapes reach impressive levels of ripeness, resulting in wines with generous body and a soft, round mouthfeel. Historically a region of blending wines, Puglia has risen in prestige thanks to producers like Cantine De Falco, who focus on quality and tradition, maximising the potential of their native grapes and ancient soils.

Such a lively and expressive red calls for hearty dishes that complement its richness and fruit-forward profile. Consider pairing this Salento IGT with classic Apulian fare like orecchiette pasta topped with a spicy sausage and tomato ragù, or roast lamb flavoured with rosemary and garlic. Grilled vegetables, hard cheeses and rustic pizzas featuring rich tomato sauce will also work beautifully, capturing the sun-soaked spirit of the region.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C, which will accentuate its freshness while letting the fruit and spicy notes develop fully in the glass. A short decanting of 30 minutes will further enhance its aromatic complexity, especially in its youthful 2023 iteration.