Squinzano

The "Squinzano" Protected Designation of Origin identifies the following types of wine: Rosso (also in the Novello and Riserva versions), Rosato (also Spumante), Bianco (also Spumante), Negroamaro (also Riserva), Negroamaro rosato (also Spumante), Susumaniello, Chardonnay (also Spumante), Malvasia bianca (also Spumante), Piano (also Spumante) and Sauvignon (also Spumante).

Grapes

The Rosso and Rosato wines are produced from grapes coming from vineyards composed, for at least 70%, of the Negroamaro vine, to which can be added the Malvasia nero of Brindisi, the Malvasia nera of Lecce, the Sangiovese and other black grapes, suitable for cultivation in Puglia (Arco Jonico area). The Bianco, on the other hand, has a base of Chardonnay and white Malvasia (minimum 80%), as well as other white grapes, identified as above. For variants with an indication of grape variety, however, this must represent at least 90% of the total, with the exception of the wines Negroamaro and Susumaniello, for which the share drops to 85%. Even in these typologies the competition of other similar grape varieties is allowed.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The Rosso (minimum total alcoholic strength by volume 12% vol) has a ruby colour, more or less intense, with possible orange reflections due to ageing; its aroma is ethereal and characteristic; its flavour is full, velvety and harmonious. The Rosato (12% vol) has an aspect between light ruby and pale cherry; the aroma is characteristic and delicately perfumed; the taste is savoury, fine and velvety. The White (11% vol), on the other hand, has a pale straw yellow aspect, with greenish reflections; the aroma is characteristic and pleasantly fruity; on the palate it is dry and velvety. In the production of single-variety and those resulting from special winemaking techniques emerge further organoleptic characteristics, described in detail in the product specification.

Grape production area

The production area is located in the hinterland of Salento.

Specificity and historical notes

The name "Squinzano" derives from the homonymous city of Salento and the recognition as DOC came in 1976, thanks to the efforts of some historical local producers.