Description
Malassiso, a Copertino DOP Rosso Riserva named after the old gate of Copertino’s historic town.
Azienda Vitivinicola Marulli blends 70% Negroamaro with 30% Montepulciano from its vineyards around Copertino, trained as Apulian alberello and spur cordon. The Negroamaro is left to dry naturally on the vine and then picked together with the Montepulciano; fermentation runs with at least 20 days of skin maceration at 26-28°C. The wine spends 12 months in concrete vats, 12 in tonneau and 12 in bottle. The producer describes a thick ruby colour with purple reflections, mace, ginger and black pepper on the nose followed by blackberry, cherry, tobacco leaf and coffee, and a vigorous palate with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Serve at 18°C.
For restaurants and chefs. Three years of ageing put Malassiso at the top of a wine list, next to slow-cooked meat. The producer pairs it with stewed game and grilled meats: wild boar stew, braised lamb shank or a grilled rib of beef all fit. Its peppery nose meets dishes finished with black pepper or warm spices. On a tasting menu it gives the meat course a Puglia Riserva with a story to tell.
For specialty and Italian stores. Malassiso has a strong awards record: Cinque Grappoli in the Bibenda guide and, for the 2018 vintage, gold in Vinoway Wine Selection 2023. That gives staff a concrete argument for a bottle priced above everyday reds. The Riserva label, the three-stage ageing and the city-gate name make it a natural gift and an occasion wine. It sells well together with aged cheeses and cured meats.
Specs: 750 ml, case of 6, vintage 2020, 15% vol, Copertino DOP, Puglia (Italy).
