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Three Wines from Cantele

A friend who is associated with Cantele sent me a media sample of a few of their wines. They are produced in Puglia, often known as the heel of Italy's boot, from local grapes.

2011 Cantele Negroamaro Rosato- Aromas of cherry syrup with floral notes. Dry with a medium body, medium alcohol and medium acidity with a fresh cherry flavor. It worked well with our dinner of soft chicken tacos with tomatillo salsa. Whole Foods has it for $13.99.

2010 Cantele Primitivo- Aromas of black plum, dark cherry and licorice. Dry with a medium body, medium alcohol, medium tannins and medium acidity with flavors to match the aromas and a slightly spicy, long finish. Very smooth and drinkable. I served it with barbequed and smoked pulled pork sandwiches and it was delicious. Available at Spec's for about $15.

2009 Cantele Salice Salentino Riserva- Ripe blackberry and black cherry aromas. Dry with a medium body, medium alcohol, medium tannins and medium acidity with flavors to match the aromas. I served it with takeout pizza which I would not do again. I think it would be better with pot roast or braised short ribs.

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  1. Jeremy ParzenJuly 16, 2013 at 2:39 PM

    Sandra, we've been a little distracted over here at the Parzen household (as you can imagine) and I'm just seeing this now. Thanks so much! Let's all get together with our de facto wine club when things settle down and I start coming back to Houston again... thank you! :) abbraccio j

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    Replies
    1. Sandra CrittendenJuly 25, 2013 at 1:15 PM

      Congratulations on your distraction, let me know when you are in town, I am in!

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