Wines Susumaniello Salento San Marzano - Chardonnay Fiano Muscatel - 2022

Viniou Reviews

San Marzano’s 2022 white blend from Salento is an inviting expression of the southern Italian terroir, thoughtfully combining Chardonnay, Fiano, and Muscatel. The Chardonnay brings structure and a gentle roundness, Fiano contributes aromatic complexity and freshness, while Muscatel lends a pronounced floral lift and a whisper of sweetness on the nose, though the palate remains dry. The 2022 vintage in Salento experienced generous sunshine and moderate rainfall, enabling optimal ripening of these varieties. The wine is vinified in stainless steel to preserve the delicate aromatics and the vibrant fruit character, resulting in a lively, approachable white that showcases both freshness and expressive aromatics.

Salento, nestled in the southern part of Puglia (the "heel" of Italy), is bathed in Mediterranean sunshine and caressed by breezes from the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The soils are typically rich in clay and limestone, which provide both good drainage and a subtle mineral backbone to the wines. Historically, Salento has been a viticultural hub for centuries, evolving from rustic reds to now producing expressive, elegant whites like this cuvée. The region’s warm climate ensures generous ripeness and intensity of aromatics, particularly well-suited for Mediterranean varietals such as Fiano and Muscatel.

This blend shines alongside light, summery fare and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Pair it with fresh seafood crudo, grilled shrimp sprinkled with lemon zest, or a classic Puglian burrata with olive oil and ripe tomatoes. It also marries well with vegetables such as zucchini fritters, or a simple pasta with clams. For a regional accent, try it with orecchiette alle cime di rapa or a seafood risotto, allowing the wine’s freshness and floral notes to elevate the dish.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Pour it into medium-sized white wine glasses to appreciate both the aromatic intensity and the crisp structure. Enjoy within the next two to three years to preserve its vibrancy and charming fruit profile.