A Mano Imprint Susumaniello 2021

Region: Puglia, Italy

Vintage: 2021

Bottle size: 75cl

Grape: Susumaniello

ABV: 14%

Notes: Vegetarian, vegan, practising organic

Deep inky purple-black in colour, this wine has intense aromas of blackberries, blueberries and chocolate, supported by floral notes of violets, blossom and hints of Mediterranean herbs. This is a full-bodied and well-structured wine with powerful yet fine tannins. A fantastic freshness carries through the seamless finish.

The grapes are grown in vineyards located in the Salento peninsula of Puglia. A rare and ancient red Puglian variety, Susumaniello was used mostly as a blending component until a few years ago. The name means 'little donkey' in local dialect, from the enormous load the vines bear when young, although others say that it is so called because it is stubborn and difficult to manage.The sandy vineyards are high up on the hillside, dry farmed and are over 30 years old.

Mark Shannon and his partner Elvezia Sbalchiero have succeeded in making Primitivo one of Italy’s most talked about grape varieties. By paying high prices for the best grapes (sourced from 70 to 100-year-old vines) and focussing solely on quality and a modern style, they have revolutionised the style and calibre of Primitivo. The continued success of A Mano is at least partly attributable to the knowledge that Mark and Elvezia have gleaned from over 18 vintages in the region. Not only are they getting access to Salento’s best grapes, but their growers have also come to realise that if they want the higher price paid by A Mano, they need to provide even better grapes than in previous years.