Negroamaro

From the heel of Italy's boot comes this characterful red that perfectly captures Puglia's rustic charm and generous spirit. Copertino Riserva is primarily made from Negroamaro (literally 'black bitter'), a grape that thrives in Puglia's intense heat and delivers wines with remarkable depth and character at prices that seem almost too good to be true. The 'Riserva' designation means this wine has been aged longer than standard bottlings, allowing those initially robust tannins to soften and develop more complex secondary flavors. What's impressive is how this cooperative winery – where local growers pool their resources – consistently produces such high-quality wine at such reasonable prices. This isn't a polished international-style red trying to impress critics; it's an authentic regional wine that pairs perfectly with food and offers a genuine taste of southern Italian wine tradition. Perfect for those nights when you want something with a bit of age and complexity without venturing into special occasion pricing territory.

Li Veli's Passamante Salice Salentino showcases the magic that happens when Negroamaro grapes are grown in the sun-baked soils of Puglia's Salento peninsula. This DOC-classified red delivers impressive depth and character that belies its modest price point. What makes this bottle special is how it captures the essence of southern Italy – there's a Mediterranean warmth and generosity here that instantly transports you to Puglia's red soil and blue skies. The name 'Passamante' refers to a local wild grass, connecting the wine to its specific terroir. Li Veli has found the perfect balance between traditional character and modern approachability, creating a wine that satisfies both old-school Italian wine lovers and those just discovering the joys of Negroamaro. It's the kind of versatile red that can handle everything from pizza night to more sophisticated fare – proving that sometimes the best values in Italian wine come from the south.

Li Veli's Sybar Negroamaro Rosé proves that Italy can compete with France when it comes to serious pink wines. From the sun-drenched Salento peninsula in Puglia comes this characterful rosé that offers both refreshment and complexity in equal measure. What makes this bottle special is how it captures Negroamaro's distinctive personality in rosé form – there's a depth and structure here that elevates it above simple porch-pounders. The name 'Sybar' references the ancient Sybarites, known for their pursuit of pleasure and luxury – a fitting name for a wine that delivers such sensory delight. The color is a bit deeper than Provençal rosés, signaling its more substantial character and food-friendliness. It's the kind of rosé that works year-round, not just in summer, making it a versatile addition to any wine collection. Perfect for those who appreciate rosé with a bit more backbone and Mediterranean flair.

Li Veli's Torrerose Rosato showcases the versatility of Puglia's signature Negroamaro grape in a beautifully crafted rosé form. From the sun-drenched Salento peninsula comes this vibrant pink wine that balances Mediterranean warmth with refreshing drinkability. The name 'Torrerose' (Tower of Roses) perfectly captures this wine's essence – there's a floral delicacy here, but supported by the structural backbone that Negroamaro naturally provides. What makes this bottle special is how it walks the line between fruity accessibility and serious character – it's got enough complexity to satisfy discerning palates but remains utterly gulpable on warm afternoons. While many Italian rosatos can be a bit rustic, Li Veli has created a refined version that can stand proudly alongside more famous rosés from around the world. It's a testament to how far southern Italian winemaking has come in recent years.

The Perrini family were organic farming pioneers in Puglia long before it became fashionable, and their commitment to natural viticulture shines through in this characterful Negroamaro. From the sun-baked heel of Italy's boot comes this soulful red that perfectly captures the rustic charm of the region. Negroamaro (which roughly translates to 'black bitter') might not have the international recognition of Sangiovese or Nebbiolo, but it's a grape that deserves your attention. This bottle offers incredible value for money – one of those wines that overdelivers at its price point. It's unpretentious yet complex, with enough Mediterranean personality to transport you to a seaside trattoria in Puglia with each sip. Perfect for those nights when you want something with a bit more character than your standard Cabernet or Merlot.