The 2009 Salice Salentino is predominantly Negroamaro with a dash of Malvasia Nera. This is a fairly intense style of Salice Salentino, with gorgeous pluminess in its dark cherry fruit backed up by firm yet beautifully integrated tannins. Smoke, incense, leather and earthiness round out the generous, long finish. This is an insanely beautiful wine for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014.
Rivera is one of the top names in Puglia. The entry-level wines generally deliver excellent value while the higher-end wines compete with the best in the region. Unfortunately I was not able to taste the 2006 Aglianico Cappellaccio, which the estate felt needed more time in bottle.
Importer: Bedford International, Larchmont, NY; tel. (914) 833-2725