Wines Apulia Wines I Passi - Appassimento - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The I Passi Cuvée Appassimento 2023 is a delightful Italian red wine from the Vini di Puglia IGT appellation in the Puglia region. This particular bottle is crafted using the Appassimento method, a traditional Italian wine-making technique where grapes are partially dried before fermentation. This process concentrates the sugars and flavours, resulting in a rich and full-bodied wine. Although the exact grape blend isn't specified, it is common in the region to use grapes like Primitivo and Negroamaro, known for their robust nature and ability to develop deep, fruit-forward profiles.

Puglia, located in the southern part of Italy, is a region with a vibrant history of winemaking that dates back to ancient times. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, which is ideal for viticulture. The soils here are generally calcareous and clay-rich, contributing to the intensity and minerality often found in Puglian wines. The region's strategic location, bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the east, enhances its climatic conditions, ensuring that the vines receive a balance of sun, wind, and moisture.

The I Passi Appassimento pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes due to its rich character. Consider serving this wine with slow-cooked lamb shanks, rich ossobuco, or a traditional Puglian dish such as orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and sausage. Its ripe fruit notes and balanced acidity also complement aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano.

For optimal enjoyment, this wine should be served at a temperature between 16-18°C. This range allows the bouquet to fully express its complexity while ensuring the flavours remain vibrant and well-integrated. Decant the wine for about an hour before serving to enhance its aromatic profile and reveal its intricate layers.