Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva

Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva: A Full-Bodied Puglian Powerhouse

The Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva is a bold and captivating red wine produced in Puglia, the southernmost region of mainland Italy. This wine is a showcase for the potential of Negroamaro, a grape variety indigenous to Puglia, and delivers a truly impressive drinking experience.

Winemaking and Region:

The grapes for this Riserva are meticulously hand-picked at peak ripeness, typically in mid to late October. Fermentation takes place under controlled temperatures to extract maximum flavour and structure from the grapes. Following fermentation, the wine spends a minimum of 10 months ageing in a combination of French and American oak barrels. This oak ageing process adds complexity and depth to the wine, introducing subtle hints of spice and vanilla alongside the inherent characteristics of the Negroamaro grape.

Tasting Profile:

Aroma:

On the nose, the Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva presents a captivating bouquet of aromas. Ripe dark fruits such as black cherries, plums, and figs take centre stage, interwoven with hints of spice like black pepper and clove. The influence of oak ageing becomes apparent with subtle suggestions of vanilla and cocoa, adding a touch of elegance to the overall profile.

Palate:

The first sip of this wine reveals its full-bodied nature. The tannins are present but beautifully integrated, offering a structured and well-rounded mouthfeel. The flavours echo the aromas, with a core of dark fruit complemented by warming spices and a touch of earthiness. Hints of licorice and dried herbs add further complexity to the palate.

Food Pairing:

The bold character of the Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva makes it a fantastic partner for a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to get your culinary creativity flowing:

• Rich Meat Dishes:  This wine stands up confidently to robust flavours. Consider pairing it with grilled steaks, slow-cooked lamb shanks, or hearty stews.
• Game:  The bold fruit flavours and earthy undertones of the wine make it a natural companion for game meats such as venison, wild boar, or duck.
• Mature Cheeses:  Enjoy the textural contrast between the full-bodied wine and creamy cheeses like aged cheddar, Gorgonzola, or Pecorino Romano.
• Spicy Cuisine: The subtle spice notes in the wine complement dishes with a kick, such as Indian curries, Mexican enchiladas, or Sichuan hot pot.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of the Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva, it's recommended to serve it at a slightly cool room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Decanting the wine for 30-60 minutes before serving can further help to soften the tannins and enhance the aromatics.

Conclusion:

The Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva is a remarkable wine that showcases the power and elegance of Negroamaro grapes from Puglia. With its full-bodied structure, intense flavours, and well-integrated oak influence, this wine offers a truly satisfying drinking experience.  Whether you're enjoying a special occasion or simply seeking a delicious accompaniment to a hearty meal, the Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva is sure to impress.

Additional Notes:

• This wine has the potential to age gracefully for several years. For those who enjoy a more developed flavour profile, cellaring the Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva for 3-5 years can be rewarding.
• While the wine is enjoyable on its own, pairing it with a well-matched dish elevates the experience to new heights. Experiment with different food combinations to discover your own favourites.
• Look for the Brunilde di Menzione Brindisi Riserva at your local wine merchant or specialist online retailer.

At The General Wine Company, we are proud to offer this exceptional Puglian wine.  Visit our website or contact us today to learn more and add a bottle (or two) to your cellar.