2017 Masseria Li Veli Passamante Salice Salentino

This varietal Negroamaro is aged six months in 225-liter barriques. Its body is a clear ruby color and fragrant of tart cherry, violets, and lily of the valley. The flavors are fruit-driven but fresh, with a strawberry-cherry core. It’s not as gritty as some Negroamaro, whose name translates to “black-bitter.” This wine feels more bright-sweet.

Still, it’s good by the glass, and its mild tannins and solid fruit allow it to pair well with spiced cuisine. It’s also good with spring flavors: think young vegetables, herbed rice, poultry and fish, mild cheeses — anything that enjoys a fruity counterpoint.

 

2017 Masseria Li Veli Passamante Salice Salentino DOC

13.5% abv | $14 (sample) Imported by Dalla Terra