Susumaniello is an extremely rare grape variety found only in the Salento region of Puglia and the name means "little donkey" in the local dialect, which refers to the large bunches that hang from the vines like the heavy loads carried by donkeys. It is a gorgeous drop of indigenous loveliness. It's concentrated, but it's not a heavyweight, which is a little surprising given its provenance in Italy's scorching, sun-ripened South, where grapes put on weight faster than a retired footballer. It shows a lightness of touch in fragrance and body. The flavours of the South (plums, warm tomato skins, leather, tobacco, dried herbs) are still there, but carried within a softly rich texture, 14% alc. Drink now-2028.

"It's safe to say that Masseria Li Veli is on a fast trajectory to be one of the top estates in Southern Italy." - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate