Italian Red Shocks the World

Three glasses. That's Italy's most prestigious and influential award bestowed upon the very best wines Italy has to offer. In Italy the award is called Tre Bicchieri and it's given out by the magazine Gambero Rosso. There's nothing willy nilly about these folks. In fact, Tre Bicchieri is one of the most difficult awards to win in the entire world.

Now for the shocking part. We have in our possession a wine which graced the cover of Gambero Rosso next to the legendary Sassicaia which sells for $225/bottle. Both wines received Tre Bicchieri, yet the wine in our hot little hands sells for just $12.99 BEFORE discount.

Honestly, even we can't get our heads around this. We've spoken to our good friends at the importer and they can't explain it either. So, we have an outright vinous mystery on our hands but frankly, we just don't care. All that matters is the quality of this raucously delicious wine.

Cantele Salice Salentino Riserva 2009 (Puglia, Italy)

The Cantele family has been in the wine industry for three generations and they are proud to have played an active role in Puglia's shift from the production of bulk wine to a concentration in making quality estate wines. Their Salice Salentino not only won Tre Bicchieri, it was also selected as Best Value Wine of 2013.

This humble and sincere little red is battle-ready. A David among wines, with enough authentic substance to hold its own against any respectable Goliath and the heavy finish of wines that require greater age.

This 100% Negroamaro has aromas of candied fruits and spices which transition to underbrush and tea notes. Enhanced by notes of red flowers, the aromas return on the palate transported by confident, but not overbearing alcohol. The tannins and fresh acidity work in counterpoint to create a balanced, soft wine. Pairs well with roast veal, lamb, game and ripe cheeses.

A screaming value!

$12.99/bottle or $124.70/12 pack case ($10.39/bottle) or just $10.39/bottle in a mixed case of wine.

At this price, we suggest you purchase this wine by the case. We did. This is a great every day wine for the summer.

Ciao,

* Wine & Spirit Education Trust Certified *

Town Center Wine & Spirits Cape Cod's Most Trusted Wine Merchant

Location 4550 State Highway North Eastham, MA 02651 (Next to the Royal Thai Restaurant in the Town Center Plaza) Tel: 508 255 3660 Fax: 508 255 6736

Early Summer Hours Mon-Fri: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m Fri-Sat: 9 am to 10 pm Sunday: 12 to 8 p.m.   We're open year round. Closed only on Memorial Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.