Salice Salentino DOC 2020

750ml

Overview

Rivera Salice Salentino DOC 2020 is a captivating red wine made primarily from the Negroamaro grape, a signature variety of Puglia. Known for its rich, full-bodied character, this wine embodies the region's unique terroir, with a perfect blend of dark fruit intensity, herbal nuances, and a touch of earthy complexity. The 2020 vintage is a well-balanced expression of this iconic wine, showcasing ripe fruit, smooth tannins, and a refreshing acidity that makes it approachable yet age-worthy.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The wine undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and purity of the fruit. This process allows the delicate aromas and flavors to develop fully.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged for several months in oak barrels, imparting subtle spice and adding complexity while maintaining the vibrancy of the fruit.
• Bottling: Bottled with minimal intervention to ensure the wine reflects the true essence of the grape and the region.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby red with hints of violet, showcasing the wine's youthful vibrancy and richness.
• Aroma: Aromas of dark berries such as black cherry and blackberry, with herbal notes of rosemary and thyme, along with subtle hints of leather and spice.
• Palate: Full-bodied and smooth, the wine offers a harmonious balance of ripe fruit and earthy flavors. Notes of black fruit, licorice, and a touch of dried herbs are complemented by soft, well-integrated tannins.
• Finish: The finish is long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit and a slight herbal edge.

Food Pairing

Salice Salentino DOC 2020 pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, particularly roasted meats, lamb, and grilled vegetables. It also complements pasta with rich meat sauces, pizzas, and hearty stews. Aged cheeses, particularly those with a strong flavor profile, such as Pecorino or aged Parmesan, make for an excellent pairing.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 18–20°C (64–68°F) to allow the wine to open up and express its full range of aromas and flavors.
• Decanting: Decanting for at least 30 minutes is recommended to enhance the aromatic profile and soften the tannins.

Aging Potential

Rivera Salice Salentino DOC 2020 has solid aging potential. It can be enjoyed in its youth for its vibrant fruit character or aged for an additional 5–8 years, where it will evolve and develop deeper complexity, with softer tannins and more pronounced tertiary notes.