At a glance

Producer

Tenuta di Carleone

Region

Puglia, Italy

Grape variety

Negroamaro

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Rich dark fruit, hints of spice and earthiness, slight oak influence

Evolution: Will develop more complex tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and dried herbs

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit and savory characteristics with smooth tannins

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, providing freshness

Tannins

Medium to firm, lending good structure

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

8-10 years with careful cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2024 to 2031

Current status

Approaching early drinkability with good potential ahead

Current condition

Youthful tannins and fresh acidity with emerging secondary aromas

The wine is built on a solid tannic and acidic backbone typical of quality Negroamaro from Puglia. The 2021 vintage showed good ripeness balanced by freshness, allowing the wine to evolve harmoniously over 8-10 years. Initial robust fruit will soften and integrate with evolving secondary and tertiary aromas, marking its peak in mid to late 2020s.

Food pairing

Pairs well with rich grilled meats, game, aged cheeses, and hearty Mediterranean dishes with herbs and spices.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic development

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Tenuta di Carleone adopts water conservation techniques, minimizes chemical treatments, and employs energy-efficient processes in production. Packaging uses recyclable materials.

While not officially certified organic or biodynamic, Tenuta di Carleone demonstrates commitment to environmentally responsible farming and production practices. Their efforts in water conservation and energy use contribute positively to sustainability, though international distribution entails transport emissions that moderate the overall footprint.