Susumaniello is a rare, ancient red Puglian grape, grown in the Salento Peninsula.
Its name comes from the local dialect and it means “Little Donkey”. Old timers told us that the name comes from the enormous load the vines bear when young, so heavy that they could only be borne by a donkey, but others say that it is so called because it is so difficult to manage, like a donkey.
“Finally we have a grape with the same personality as the winemaker” Elvi told me… (I hope she meant hard working and reliable, but she may have actually meant stubborn). I could not resist the challenge of working with this precious and unique variety.

This is a wine where the earth, people and the terroir shine.

Grape: 100% Susumaniello
Location of vineyards: Brindisi, San Vito dei Normanni.
Age of vines: 30 to 40 years old.
What makes the site unique: A rare and ancient red Puglian variety, Susumaniello was used mostly as a blending component until a few years ago. We love it pure.
Fermentation techniques: Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes were sorted and cold fermented in stainless steel tanks. Pump-overs were very gentle so as not to overextract the aggressive tannins of this unusual variety.
Why this wine is unique: Deep, inky purple-black in the glass. Intense aromas of blackberry and chocolate are supported by blueberry perfumes, violets, blossom, crème de cassis and Mediterranean herbs. The wine is full bodied, with powerful yet fine tannins and great texture. A fantastic freshness carries through the seamless finish.