From: Guagnano, Salento, Puglia, Italy
Varietal: Susumaniello
Taste: In the glass, the wine shows a vivid deep ruby with violet reflections. The nose opens with ripe black cherry, mulberry, and plum, followed by hints of violet, dried herbs, and a trace of wild fennel. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with vibrant acidity and fine, dusty tannins that lend structure without heaviness. Flavors of juicy red and black fruits carry through, joined by touches of cracked pepper, cocoa nib, and a mineral edge. The finish is energetic and slightly savory, with lingering notes of blackberry skin and dried rosemary.
Pairing: The natural acidity and earthy-fruited character of Susumaniello make it a versatile pairing for a variety of dishes, particularly those with robust seasoning or savory depth. Start with general rules: balance its moderate tannins with protein, match its acidity with tomato-based sauces, and use herbal or bitter components to complement its aromatic profile.
About: Cantele is located in Guagnano, a town in the Salento zone of southern Puglia. Founded in 1979, the winery remains family-run and is now in its third generation of leadership. The Cantele family's history, however, dates back much further, beginning in the early 20th century with Giovanni Battista Cantele, who left his hometown of Pramaggione during the First World War and later worked in the wine trade, sourcing bulk wines from southern Italy to sell in the north.
Today, the winery is run by the third generation. Augusto’s sons, Paolo and Gianni, manage winemaking and marketing, respectively, while Domenico’s children, Umberto and Luisa, are also active in the business. Together, this generation has expanded the winery’s international profile while maintaining a focus on varietal clarity and regional authenticity.
