At a glance

Producer

Valentina Passalacqua

Region

Puglia, Italy

Grape variety

Primarily Negroamaro with possible blending of local indigenous varieties

Wine type

Orange

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Flavors of dried apricot, orange peel, chamomile, and subtle honey meld with tannic texture and slight oxidative notes.

Evolution: Will develop richer nutty and savory complexity while mellowing in tannin intensity over next 3-5 years.

At peak: Complex balance of fruit, spice, and oxidative layers with creamy texture and lingering finish.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, crisp acidity balancing oxidative elements

Tannins

Medium intensity, refined from skin contact typical of orange wines

Alcohol

13.5%-14.0%

Aging potential

7-10 years with proper storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2029

Optimal window

2024 to 2030

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking

Current condition

Youthful with developing tertiary notes

Given the 2022 vintage's youthful vibrancy and the orange wine’s skin-contact style, it requires at least 2 years post-release to harmonize tannins and oxidative character. Peak drinking will be in the mid to late 2020s when complexity and freshness converge.

Food pairing

Ideal with roasted poultry, grilled seafood, richer vegetarian dishes like mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses with nutty profiles.

Serving

Serving temperature

12-14°C / 54-57°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Allows mellowing of tannins and integration of oxidative aromas for balanced palate experience.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Passalacqua employs organic viticulture, reduces irrigation to minimal water stress levels, uses solar energy at estate, and embraces minimal intervention winemaking to preserve terroir.

Valentina Passalacqua’s approach emphasizes ecological balance, soil health, and low-impact winemaking. Organic certification reinforces commitment to sustainability. Use of renewable energy and efficient water management reduces environmental impact. The estate's focus on orange wine promotes biodiversity with minimal additives, further supporting environmental stewardship.