Varvaglione 12 and mezzo Rosato del Salento IGP

A light rosé from Puglia's hot south – the 12 e mezzo (named after its alcohol content of 12.5% vol.) shows what Southern Italy can do in the glass: fresh, fruit-forward, uncomplicatedly drinkable.

The Varvaglione winery was founded in 1921 in Leporano, Taranto province, and has been in family hands for over 100 years. The vineyards are located in Salento, the peninsula in the extreme south of Puglia, where intense sun and sandy soils produce fully ripe grapes.

In the glass, a clear salmon pink. The nose shows strawberry and raspberry, complemented by a hint of white blossoms. On the palate, lightweight with mild fruit sweetness and crisp freshness – a rosé that doesn't make you tired.

• Temperature: 8–10 °C
• Food: Antipasti, grilled vegetables, light pasta, seafood, or solo as a summer aperitif