Negroamaro is a grape variety that thrives in drought conditions and, arguably behind Primitivo, is the hero of Puglia’s red wine production. Typically deep in color, with spicy, earthy accents and substantial structure, in the right hands the tannins are velvety and the ripe fruit character is balanced by bright acidity. Here it’s blended with a small proportion of Malvasia Nera di Lecce, which contributes aromatic lift and plush body. This wine was matured for 6 months in oak and had further maturation in bottle before release.

2022

Maiana represents Leone de Castris’s more modern interpretation of the traditional grapes of Puglia, and so this is a plump and approachable version of what can be a very muscular variety. A nose of plum and dark cherries is backed by crushed herbs and touches of vanilla. In the mouth it is smooth, velvety and nicely tannic. Partner with roasted red meats and bold, salty cheeses.