Schola Sarmenti – Nerio Riserva Negroamaro-Malvasia 75 cl.

Schola Sarmenti Nerio Riserva is a classic southern Italian red from Nardò in Salento, crafted from local grape varieties such as Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera, sourced from old vines. The style is full-bodied and characterful, combining rich, ripe fruit with savoury spice, mature tannins and the warm depth that defines great reds from Puglia. Extended ageing as a Riserva adds extra layers of complexity and a more evolved bouquet.

In the glass, Nerio shows a deep ruby colour with garnet hints. The nose is intense and slightly developed, offering aromas of black cherry, plum, dark berries, dried fruits, leather, tobacco and warm, sweet spices. On the palate it is generous and mouth-filling, with dense dark fruit, rounded yet firm tannins, a gentle alcoholic warmth and a long, slightly spicy finish with notes of liquorice, cocoa and dried fruits.

Nerio Riserva is an excellent partner for robust meat dishes: grilled beef and lamb, braised stews, game, rich pasta with meat and tomato sauces and mature, flavourful cheeses. It also makes a wonderful “fireplace wine” to sip slowly in a large glass.

Schola Sarmenti is based in Nardò in the heart of Salento and is devoted to native grape varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro and Susumaniello. Many of the vineyards are planted with old vines, often trained in traditional bush-vine systems with naturally low yields. Harvesting is done by hand and the work in the vineyard is guided by respect for nature and terroir. The house style is generous and expressive, with plenty of ripe fruit and southern warmth, yet always aiming for balance – something that shines through clearly in Nerio Riserva.