2022 Podere 29 "Gelso D'Oro" Nero di Troia

We head far south to the sun-baked, wind-swept coast of northern Puglia to discover Podere 29. Situated in the Daunia region near the Adriatic Sea, this organic estate is fiercely dedicated to elevating the local, historic grape of the area: Nero di Troia. The name "Gelso D'Oro" translates to "Golden Mulberry," paying homage to the ancient mulberry trees that dot the estate and symbolize the deep agricultural heritage of the land. While Puglia is famous for producing massive, jammy reds from Primitivo further south, Nero di Troia in this northern coastal pocket behaves differently. The vineyards here thrive on sandy, mineral-rich soils that are constantly ventilated by salty sea breezes. This maritime influence is crucial; it mitigates the intense Southern Italian heat, allowing for a long, slow ripening season that preserves the grape's natural acidity and complex aromatics. "Gelso D'Oro" is the estate's crown jewel. In the glass, it pours an inky, impenetrable ruby. The nose is a profound sensory journey into the Mediterranean scrub, exploding with the grape's signature aroma of crushed violets, followed by dark blackberry, dried figs, and roasted cocoa. On the palate, it is enveloping and powerful, yet held together by a surprising coastal freshness and velvety tannins. It is a magnificent, soulful red that demands rich, slow-braised meats or aged Pecorino cheese.