Tenuta Serranova Ottavianello

Tenuta Serranova takes its name from the Castello di Serranova – a ‘masseria’ or fortified house just 5km from the Adriatic coast in the north of Brindisi. It was built in 1350 as a defence against the neighbouring Turkish forces, and now sits in the Torre Guaceto nature reserve which surrounds an ancient coastal watchtower. The castle was enlarged in the 1600s to become an important agricultural estate, and was purchased by the Vallone family in the 19th Century. It is now run by Vittoria, Maria Teresa and Francesco Vallone. The Tenuta Serranova estate is managed organically, and the vineyards planted on mixed sand and clay soils are predominantly Susumaniello (10ha) and Ottavianello (3ha), alongside Fiano and Negroamaro. It is also home to 60 hectares of olive trees – probably the largest single-owned olive tree plantation of its kind in Salento.

Cinsault,

At the Tenuta Serranova estate there are just 3 hectares of Ottavianello bush vines planted in clay/limestone soils.

Ottavianello is the name given to the Cinsault grape in southern Italy, and the tiny Ostuni DOP is the only one in Italy dedicated to the grape. The Tenuta Serranova estate is one of its leading producers.

The grapes are hand-harvested in the first half of September, and undergo fermentation at controlled temperature for 15-20 days in stainless steel. The wine is then refined in concrete tanks, and for 3 months in bottle.

Ottavianello is the name given to the Cinsault grape in southern Italy, and the tiny Ostuni DOP is the only one in Italy dedicated to the grape. The Tenuta Serranova estate is one of its leading producers.

Vibrant aromas of red berries, violets and a hint of spice. The palate has bright bramble fruit characters, supple tannins and juicy acidity. Grilled and roast meat dishes, casseroles and rich tomato sauces.

Perfect served lightly chilled as a summer red too.