Malvasia Nera del Salento 'Askos' Masseria Li Veli 2023

The Apulian winery Masseria Li Veli presents Malvasia Nera del Salento 'Askos', a label capable of associating the grape's characteristic fruity and floral aromas with complex spicy notes deriving from its passage in oak. Belonging to the vast and complex Malvasia family, the Malvasia Nere varietal group is characterised by the dark blue colour of the grapes and a rather delicate aromaticity. In general, Malvasia Nera is widespread in Apulia, particularly in the provinces of Taranto, Brindisi and Lecce. Over time, a distinction has arisen between the Malvasia Nera di Lecce and the Malvasia Nera di Brindisi, with the latter ripening earlier and being characterised by smaller berries, although genetic analyses have shown the two varieties to be identical.

Masseria Li Veli Malvasia Nera 'Askos' Salento is made from pure Malvasia Nera grapes from vineyards over 20 years old, grown using the spurred cordon system on soils rich in clay and sand, also characterised by the presence of limestone residues. The grapes, harvested in mid-September, are vinified in red with alcoholic fermentation in contact with the skins in French oak vats at a controlled temperature of between 22 and 28 °C. Once the fermentation process is complete, the mass is racked into French oak barrels and barriques for several months of maturation prior to bottling.

To the eye, Masseria Li Veli's Salento 'Askos' Malvasia Nera shows an intense, dark ruby red colour. The nose offers vivid perceptions of currants, candied orange peel and dried violets, together with hints of ash and hints of cocoa and spices. The taste development is very well-balanced, endowed with great elegance and a smooth drinkability that invites you to return to the glass again and again.