Description

The 2017 Cantina Sociale Cooperativa Copertino Riserva DOC is a highly regarded, budget-friendly red wine from the Salento peninsula in Puglia, Italy, renowned for its rustic charm and aging potential. It is produced by a historic cooperative founded in 1935, known for focusing on indigenous grape varieties. 

This is a fabulous value and best with a little airing as there is a slight “barnyard” aroma that blows off quickly.

• Blend: Predominantly Negroamaro (usually around 90-95%), with small additions of Malvasia Nera and sometimes Montepulciano.
• Region: Copertino DOC, Salento, Puglia (southern Italy).
• Soil: Clay on top of hard limestone (tufa).
• Vine System: Traditional Apulian shrub-vines (Alberello). 

• Color: Deep ruby red with garnet, or orange-ish, reflections.
• Aroma: Intense, complex, and earthy. Expect notes of ripe black cherry, plum, blackberry, leather, tobacco, and dried Mediterranean herbs.
• Palate: Full-bodied, velvety, and savory, with well-integrated tannins, moderate acidity, and flavors of dark fruit, almond, and cocoa.
• Style: A traditional, “old-school” Italian red that is robust and earthy, sometimes with a slight “barnyard” or rustic funk. 

• Aging: As a Riserva, this wine is aged for a minimum of 2 years before release, frequently spending time in large oak casks followed by extensive, traditional aging in underground cement tanks.
• Alcohol: Typically around 12.5%–13% ABV. 

• Pairs best with hearty, rustic dishes: Grilled red meats, roasted lamb, casserole, stew, and strongly flavored, aged cheeses. 

• The wine is consistently rated as an excellent value, often found for under $15–$20, with high reputation for complexity at its price point.