Cantina Sava Susumaniello IGP 2022

Cantina Sava Susumaniello IGP is a distinctive red from Salento in Puglia, made from 100% Susumaniello - an ancient native grape that has seen a strong revival in recent years. Once largely overlooked and used in blends, Susumaniello is now celebrated for its ability to produce wines of both structure and elegance, deeply tied to the warm, sun-soaked landscapes of southern Italy.

Grown in the province of Taranto, where Mediterranean heat and well-drained soils encourage full ripening, this wine reflects the richness of the region while maintaining balance and freshness. Traditional fermentation with controlled maceration helps extract colour and structure, often followed by a short period of ageing to soften the wine and enhance its texture.

This is a modern expression of a rediscovered grape, full-bodied yet refined, with smooth tannins and a savoury edge, capturing the evolving identity of Puglia’s indigenous varieties.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.

Type: Red Wine
Style: Full-bodied, Smooth, Southern Italian
Grape Varietal: Susumaniello
Tastes Like: Comparable to a premium Shiraz, but softer, more savoury and distinctly Mediterranean in style
Alcohol Percentage: 14%
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Puglia IGP
Region: Puglia, Italy
Terroir: Warm Mediterranean vineyards in the province of Taranto with well-drained soils that encourage full ripening while retaining balance
Aging: Traditional fermentation with controlled maceration followed by a short period of maturation to soften the tannins and build texture
Serving Temperature: 16–18℃ – Decant recommended

Cantina Sava is a Puglian producer based in the province of Taranto, an area known for powerful native grape varieties and a long tradition of warm-climate viticulture. The winery focuses on approachable, characterful wines that showcase the richness of southern Italy while maintaining balance and regional identity.

This Susumaniello highlights one of Puglia’s most exciting rediscovered varieties. Once mainly used in blends, Susumaniello is now valued for its ability to produce deeply structured yet polished reds, and Cantina Sava’s expression reflects the modern revival of this historic grape.

Meat: Perfect with grilled steak, roast lamb or slow-cooked beef
Pasta: Excellent with beef ragù, baked pasta or rich tomato-based sauces
BBQ: Pairs beautifully with chargrilled meats, sausages or smoky ribs
Italian Classics: Ideal with orecchiette with meat sauce, polpette or hearty Puglian dishes

Caciocavallo: Firm and savoury, stands up well to the wine's structure
Aged Pecorino: Salty and intense, complements the wine's full-bodied style
Provolone Piccante: Sharp and robust, matches the wine's depth and tannins
Parmigiano Reggiano: Nutty and savoury, pairs beautifully with the wine's richness

Bombette Pugliesi (Puglian Stuffed Pork Rolls)

Ingredients:

• 8 thin slices pork loin
• 100g caciocavallo or provolone, cut into small strips
• 8 thin slices pancetta
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Place the pork slices between two sheets of baking paper and gently flatten them with a rolling pin.
3. Season each piece of pork with salt and cracked black pepper, then top with a slice of pancetta, a little garlic, parsley and caciocavallo.
4. Roll each piece tightly around the filling and secure with a toothpick.
5. Arrange the rolls in a lightly oiled baking dish and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
6. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until the pork is golden and cooked through and the cheese is melting.
7. Serve immediately with roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables or crusty bread.

A beloved speciality of Puglia, Bombette Pugliesi are an excellent match for Susumaniello. The savoury pork, pancetta and melted cheese suit the wine's generous body and smooth tannins, while its freshness balances the richness and brings out the smoky, savoury flavours of the dish.