# Garrisa Susumaniello (2024)

- **Producer:** Masseria Li Veli
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Susumaniello
- **Region:** Puglia, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €11
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, blueberry, blackcurrant, liquorice, vanilla, cedar

## About this wine

Masseria Li Veli was originally established in 1895 by Marchese Antonio de Viti de Marco as a model estate for southern Italian viticulture. In 1999, the Falvo family acquired and renovated the historical property, rebuilding its star-vaulted cellars and focusing on autochthonous Apulian grape varieties. Garrisa is crafted from Susumaniello, an ancient local grape variety grown in Northern Salento that was rescued from near extinction through dedicated revival efforts by local wine producers.

## Interesting facts

- Susumaniello translates to 'little donkey' because young vines load themselves with heavy grape bunches like a pack donkey.
- The historic Masseria Li Veli estate was restored in 1999 by the Falvo family, former owners of Tuscany's Avignonesi.
- Renowned consulting oenologist Riccardo Cotarella collaborates with the winery on its indigenous grape revival projects.

## Food pairing

The medium-to-full body, fresh acidity, and dark fruit intensity of Susumaniello complement rich meat dishes and tomato-based pasta sauces. Its integrated tannins align well with mature sheep milk cheeses like Pecorino without overpowering the palate.

## Wine making process

Grapes are sustainably farmed from vines aged 10 to 20 years trained in the spurred cordon system in Cellino San Marco. The grapes are hand-harvested in late September and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks between 22°C and 28°C. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 6 months in French oak barriques to enhance its structure and smooth tannin integration before filtration and bottling.