2022 Valle D'Itria 'La Rotaie' Rose Wine, Puglia, Italy   

I,for one, had never tasted a Susumaniello before trying I Pástini’s rosato, made in the rocky area of Puglia known as the Valle d’Itria. It is one of several local heirloom grape varieties the Carparelli family is working to bring back to the mainstream after near abandonment. With its delicate floral nose, refreshingly crisp mouthfeel saturated with wild berry flavors, and lightly chalky finish, this wine is the ideal ambassador for the grape, the winery, and the entire region. I like a big glass served cold with a fresh tomato salad heaped with creamy burrata—a specialty of Puglia—plus any combination of shredded basil, salt-cured anchovies, and pitted black olives, depending on what is currently in the pantry.