Malvasia Nera del Salento 'Askos' Masseria Li Veli 2023
'Askos' by Masseria Li Veli 2021 is a very balanced and elegant Malvasia Nera from Salento. It represents a very territorial wine, not at all demanding but still refined and possessing a smoothness that invites a second sip. Violet, currant, spices, candied orange, and cocoa meet throughout the tasting, resulting in a perfect red to enjoy with grilled lamb
The Apulian wine reality Masseria Li Veli presents the Malvasia Nera del Salento ‘Askos’, a label capable of associating the characteristic fruity and floral aromas of the grape variety with complex spicy notes derived from aging in oak wood. Belonging to the vast and complex family of Malvasias, the group of Malvasie Nere is characterized by the dark blue color of the grapes, as well as by its rather delicate aromaticity. In general, Malvasia Nera is widely spread in Puglia, particularly in the provinces of Taranto, Brindisi, and Lecce. Over time, a distinction has arisen between the Malvasia Nera of Lecce and that of Brindisi, with the latter ripening earlier and characterized by smaller berries, although genetic analyses have shown the identity between the two grape varieties.
Masseria Li Veli Malvasia Nera ‘Askos’ Salento is made from pure Malvasia Nera grapes from vineyards over 20 years old, cultivated with the spurred cordon system on soils rich in clay and sand, also characterized by the presence of calcareous residues. The clusters, harvested in mid-September, are vinified in red with alcoholic fermentation in contact with the skins in French oak vats, at a controlled temperature between 22 and 28 °C. Once the fermentation process is completed, the mass is transferred to French oak barrels and barriques for several months of aging before bottling.
To the eye, the Salento ‘Askos’ Malvasia Nera from Masseria Li Veli shows an intense and dark ruby red color. The nose offers vivid perceptions of currants, candied orange peel, and wilted violets, combined with memories of ash and hints of cocoa and spices. Very balanced is the taste development, characterized by great elegance and a smooth drinkability that invites you to return to the glass.