Susumaniello variety from Puglia Southern Italy

by Darby
(europe)

Susumaniello is a red wine variety which has been used in the Salento region in Southern Italy for time immemorial. It was just one of many varieties that are used down here. Then someone came up with the idea to see what would happen if they took some trouble to make some wine using modern techniques and care.

The wine I tried from this variety, Serre made by Cantine Due Palma, was of considerable quality. There was a firm structure and a lovely plummy nose and flavour.

I'm not sure if there is much Susumaniello outside Puglia, Apparently the locals are still to agree on the correct spelling of the name. I enjoyed a couple of glasses with Lecce style fricassee of rabbit and black olives dressed with vincotta.