A Mano, Susumaniello 2022
Country: Italy Region: Puglia Vintage: 2022
Category: Red Wine Color: Red
Producer: A Mano
"Producing wines of quality, Mark Shannon and his partner Elvezia Sbalchiero have succeeded in making Primitivo one of Italy's most talked about grape varieties. By paying high prices for the best grapes (sourced from 70 to 100 year old vines) and focussing solely on quality and a modern style, they have revolutionised the style and quality of Primitivo. Part of the reason for the continued success of A Mano is the knowledge that Mark and Elvezia have after 17 vintages (the first was as a consultant for another company) in the region. Not only are they getting access to Salento's best grapes, but also their growers have come to realise that if they want the higher price paid by A Mano, they need to provide even better grapes than in previous years.
The quality of the grapes shines through in the resulting wines. A Mano Bianco is a blend of Fiano, Falanghina and Greco, and displays aromas of ripe pear and orange blossoms. The Rosato is a blend of Primitivo and Aleatico fermented at low temperatures in order to retain the delicate perfume of the varieties. Following the success of the Spumante Rosato, Mark decided to put his hands to another wine, the Imprint Primitivo Appassito. Made in the style of an Amarone, this wine over-delivers on every front.
A rare and ancient red Puglian variety, Susumaniello was used mostly as a blending component until a few years ago. The name means 'little donkey' in local dialect, from the enormous load the vines bear when young, although others say that it is so called because it is stubborn and difficult to manage. The wine is deep, inky purple and is full-bodied and intensely scented with aromas of blackberry and violets. The Aleatico di Puglia Passito is made from Aleatico grapes that were dried for eight weeks and aged in 700 litre casks."
Product Features: Sustainable;Vegan;Vegetarian
Winemaker: Mark Shannon
Vineyards:
The grapes are grown in vineyards located in the Salento peninsula of Puglia. A rare and ancient red Puglian variety, Susumaniello was used mostly as a blending component until a few years ago. The name means 'little donkey' in local dialect, from the enormous load the vines bear when young, although others say that it is so called because it is stubborn and difficult to manage! The sandy vineyards are high up on the hillside, dry farmed and are over 30 years old.
Vinification:
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 over-extract the aggressive tannins of this unusual variety. The wine was bottled without fining.
Tasting Notes:
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.
Food Suggestion:
Complements traditional dishes of Orrechiette pasta with rabbit or lamb ragù. Alternatively, drink with a selection of hard cow's-milk cheese.
Closure: Stelvin ABV:12.5% Classification: IGT Acidity [g/l]: 6.28
