Salice Salentino DOC 2021 – Rivera x 6

Rivera Salice Salentino DOC 2021

Rivera's Salice Salentino DOC was created to offer a contemporary, lively, and extraordinarily technically refined interpretation of a historic Southern Italian appellation. Through modern winemaking, the De Corato family demonstrates how the union of two traditional grape varieties can generate a fresh and elegant flavor profile, far removed from jammy overtones. This approach results in a top-quality red wine, ideal for those seeking an expression of a native Apulian grape that combines good structure with a pleasant, easy-drinking character.

The vineyards are trained using the Salento bush vine system on the red clay soils typical of Salento, in the area stretching between the provinces of Brindisi and Lecce, with a density of 5,000 vines per hectare. The blend is composed of 90% Negroamaro and 10% Malvasia Nera. Harvested in the second week of September, the grapes undergo 8-9 days of maceration in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature (28°C) to enhance the fruit's fragrance. The wine then ages for 12 months in glass-lined concrete tanks—where malolactic fermentation takes place—and for a couple of months in the bottle before being released for sale.

Tasting Notes and Sensory Profile

• Abv: 13.00% Vol.
• Appearance: Deep, vibrant ruby ​​red color with excellent chromatic intensity.
• Aroma: An intense profile true to the varietal, dominated by clear aromas of ripe black fruit, particularly plum and morello cherry, alongside subtle spicy notes.
• On the Palate: On the palate, it is rich, full-bodied, and intense, supported by a good overall structure and well-integrated tannins. The progression unfolds smoothly toward a finish characterized by the typical pleasantly bitter aftertaste of Negroamaro.
• Aging Potential: If perfectly cellared, it can evolve pleasantly for 3-4 years.

Recommended Pairings and Serving Suggestions

The extraordinary versatility at the table and the balance of this great Apulian red make it a perfect gastronomic all-rounder:

• First Courses and Tradition: Excellent with flavorful Mediterranean first courses, baked pasta timbales, orecchiette with ragù, and eggplant parmigiana.
• Meat-Based Second Courses: It pairs beautifully with grilled red meats, roasts, savory roulades, and baked poultry.
• Cheeses: Perfect served alongside platters of cured meats and aged or semi-hard cheeses.
• Serving Suggestion: It is recommended to uncork the bottle slightly in advance. Serve at a serving temperature of 16-18°C in medium-sized glasses.

The Rivera Winery

An absolute benchmark for viticulture in Puglia since the early 20th century, the Rivera Winery combines extreme artisanal care with the most advanced cellar technology. Although the company's historic headquarters and main vineyards are located in the prestigious area of ​​Castel del Monte on the Murgia plateau, with this label the De Corato family celebrates the winemaking potential of Salento, creating a great southern classic of absolute quality.