Wine: Rinforzo Salento Primitivo 

Country: Italy

Region: Puglia

Designation: Salento IGT

Producer: Barone Montalto

Grape Varietal: Nero d’Avola

ABV: 14%

Type: Red

Code: 1967

Tasting Note

A wonderfully bold, full bodied red full of opulent ripe fruits and dark chocolate flavours and a touch of Mediterranean herbs. 

Producer

Rinforzo is produced by Codici Masserie, in the southern “boot” of Italy. This brand derives its’ passion from the wild and unique land of Puglia. This region is abundant with a rich past told by some of Europe’s finest architecture as displayed by the baroque splendour of Lecce, vibrant folklore tales, and an endless array of diverse cultures.

Winemaking

The grapes for Rinforzo grow in vineyards located in the hills surrounding Manduria, deep in the heel of Italy's Puglia region. Grapes are hand-picked and placed in single layers in small cases of up to 5kg each. Then they are carefully air dried for four weeks in a controlled temperature “fruttaia” (fruit chamber). The natural enzymatic processes develop the peculiar aromas and taste profile to concentrate their aromas and flavour intensity. After up to 10 months of ageing in small oak casks, the result is elegant, silky wines such as this one.

Fun Fact

The Appassimento wine making technique is best known for producing the famously intense Amarone Valpolicella wines of Vento in North Italy.  The name Appassimento translates to “fading” or “withering” in Italian and refers to a winemaking process where dried grapes, instead of fresh grapes, are fermented. When winemakers use the appassimento process, they create wines that are full-bodied and packed with intense fruit, balanced acidity and sometimes sweetness.  

Food pairing

Rinforzo's bold personality calls for equally bold companions. Think grilled meats, like juicy steaks or lamb chops, that can stand up to the wine's intensity. Also try rich pasta dishes, infused with truffles or sausage. Aged cheeses, like Pecorino Romano or Gorgonzola, offer a creamy counterpoint.

Awards & Accolades

Gold Medal Concourse Mondiale de Bruxelles

89 points Decanter

Sweet vanilla oak, red cherry and mushroom aromas. Concentrated, with dry tannins, lovely structure and focus.