Marchese di Borgosole Salice Salentino Riserva

Salento pure: the Salice Salentino Riserva from Marchese di Borgosole shows what Negroamaro from the deep south of Apulia can do — dark, juicy, with real ripeness in tow.

Botter is one of the major trading houses in northeastern Italy's wine industry, serving partner wineries throughout Italy for decades. The Marchese di Borgosole line sources its grapes from Salento, the peninsula in the heel of the boot. There, limestone soils, dry summers, and cool night breezes produce concentrated berries with good acidity. The Riserva matures for six months in oak barrels—long enough to add structure without masking the fruit.

In the glass, a deep ruby ​​red. The nose reveals blackberry, blueberry, and a hint of black olive, with underlying notes of tobacco and dark chocolate. On the palate, it is juicy and rounded, the tannins are soft and well-integrated, and the finish is warm with a touch of spice. James Suckling awarded 93 points to the 2016 vintage.

At the table: Pairs well with herb-crusted lamb, grilled salsiccia, or mature pecorino cheese. Serving temperature 16–18 °C.