Wines Susumaniello Salento Masca del Tacco - Collezione di Famiglia - 2023

Masca del Tacco’s 2023 Collezione di Famiglia comes from the heart of Salento, a sun-kissed subregion in the southern tip of Puglia. While the precise cépage for this cuvée is not specified, Salento reds are typically known for featuring indigenous grape varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, or sometimes Malvasia Nera, each lending rich colour, robust fruit, and supple tannins to the blend. Expect in this bottle an expressive, deeply hued red wine with vibrant notes—perhaps reminiscent of ripe black fruits, Mediterranean herbs, and hints of sweet spices. The wine is labelled as “sec”, so you can anticipate a dry palate, likely with a generous, velvety texture and a persistent finish, typical for this style from Salento.

The Salento peninsula boasts a unique terroir shaped by breezes from both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, bathed in abundant sunshine and benefiting from well-drained, limestone-based soils. This Mediterranean climate favours concentrated, structured reds with notable ripeness and warmth, reflecting the region’s long history in viticulture that dates back to ancient Greek settlers. Over the centuries, Salento has developed a proud tradition of robust, food-friendly wines that beautifully encapsulate this distinctive landscape.

For food pairings, a Salento red of this style will shine alongside grilled meats such as lamb chops or beef tagliata, hearty tomato-based pasta dishes like orecchiette with ragù, or even traditional Apulian fare such as “bombette” (stuffed pork rolls). Mature hard cheeses or roasted aubergine in olive oil would also complement the wine’s rich, fruity profile.

To best appreciate its aromatic intensity and generous palate, serve this wine at 16–18°C after a brief aeration. This will allow its layers of fruit, spice, and subtle earthiness to unfold fully, making it an excellent companion to convivial meals and leisurely evenings alike.