Sasseo (pronounced Sah-say-oh) is a whimsical name. It is derived from the Italian word sasso, meaning stone; this name refers to the abundance of limestone in the area, which creates a reflective quality in the vineyards.

VINTAGE
2012

APPELLATION
Salento IGT

AREA
Salento, Puglia

GRAPES
100% Primitivo

VINIFICATION
The grapes are grown on a terrain comprised of reddish earth mixed with slabs of limestone; the latter have been crushed according to a unique technique known as "spietramento". Mature grapes are machine harvested, then gently crushed and de-stemmed. Afterwards, the must is fermented over a period of fourteen days at temperatures controlled between 77°F to 82°F. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in 6,000 liter Slavonian botte for one year and an additional three months in the bottle.

COLOR
Ruby red with purple hues

BOUQUET
Prominent tobacco and leather on the nose; ripe blackberry and blueberry with hints of cocoa, baking spice, and delicate pine

PALATE
Juicy and medium bodied; reveals rich fruits, sweet herbs, and milk chocolate; leads to plush tannins and an elegant finish

FOOD PAIRINGS
Compliments barbecued and grilled meats, an assortment of pastas with red sauce, as well as bleu, Gouda, and goat milk-based cheeses.

SERVING TEMPERATURE
61°F - 64°F

ALCOHOL LEVEL
14.5%

BOTTLE SIZE
750 mL