Vineka Susumaniello 2024

Vineka was founded by Guglielmo Zito with the purpose of bringing the world great Puglian wines from Salento and the Itria Valley, while simultaneously reawakening the local vineyards to their untapped potential. Guglielmo started his wine career in import/export, though by 2016 he felt the calling to produce and promote the wines of his native Puglia. He started Vineka with his partner Milda Andrikonyte with a commitment to sustainable winemaking and promotion of local vineyards and growers. They craft wines that are emblematic and authentic to the region: Verdeca, Dianca d’Alessano, Minutolo and Malvasia for the whites and Primitivo, Susumaniello and Negroamaro for the reds.

Susumaniello — an ancient varietal indigenous to the Puglia region — has historically been utilized as a blending grape. However, Guglielmo Zito crafts a spectacular monovarietal wine from this obscure varietal. Vineka's Susumaniello —deep reddish pink in color — offers an incredible bouquet of earth-tinged berry and citrus fruits. The palate is juicy and fresh with flavors of blood orange, strawberry and raspberry clinging to a backbone of vibrant acidity and subtle mineral notes. This charming wine coasts to a long, refreshing finish. Delicious on its own — even with a little chill — but versatile for a variety of starter and picnic-centric foods: cured meats and cheeses, assorted salads or sandwiches.