Santi Dimitri is a family-owned winery at the southern tip of Puglia, the “heel of the boot,” ideally situated between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, known for Primitivo and Negroamaro native grapes. The estate has been in the Vallone family since the 17th century, although the vineyards underwent a renaissance in the 1990’s when Vincenzo Vallone reduced production, modified the viticulture and significantly improved quality. The winery uses sustainable agriculture practices and natural winemaking techniques. Grapes are picked at night the vinification techniques, including fermenting and ageing stainless steel (even for most of the reds) allow the grapes to express their natural varietal characteristics, resulting in wines that are fresh, complex and delicious.
We had the pleasure of receiving Vincenzo’s son, Edoardo, here in Canada last November during a fantastic road show to meet the vast Canadian public acclaiming his wines.
Edoardo at the Wine and Food Festival in Ottawa, presenting his wines.
WINES
“Ruah” 2011 – 100% Fiano
Pale straw colour with an aromatic and appealing, fruity, herbaceous nose – loads of peach, sweet lemon, pear with soft floral and peppery notes. On the palate, crisp and savoury with nice citrus acidity and mineral salts and a lingering, slightly smoky, lemony finish. Pair with fish, shell fish, risotto alla pescatora.
“Cinciallegra” 2011 –50% Chardonnay, 50% Sauvignon Blanc
“Happy Bird” is the meaning of the name and it reflects in this wine: appealing pale straw colour, fresh and light-bodied with notes of peach, pear and ripe melon and a touch of spritz and nice acidity. I love as aperitivo, on its own! [Antonio]
“Aruca” 2009 – 100% Negroamaro
Wonderfully complex, with great depth of aroma and flavour and rich cherry red colour. This red was partially aged in eastern European oak barriques (15%), enhancing the natural spice of the negroamaro. On the nose and palate, dark ripe cherry and blackberry with toasty, smoky, leathery undertones and soft tannins – delicious!
“Ruvezzo” 2010 – 90% Negroamaro, 10% Merlot
Delicious ripe blackberry and raspberry aromas rise out of the glass, followed by a touch of eucalyptus, smoke and leathery spice and are repeated on the palate. Full bodied with fine tannins and excellent balance.
Primitivo 2010 – 100% Primitivo
Bright cherry red colour for this fresh, young, simple yet mouthwatering wine. Cherry aromas are supported by soft peppery, smoky and floral notes. Tannins are light and the fruit and acidity are balanced brilliantly.
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