About the Wine

Negroamaro, also known as Italy’s “dark beauty” is one of Puglia’s main red varieties. This powerful dark grape delivers intense rustic wines that combine perfume and earthiness, resulting in rich, ripe, intense wines. Lu Ceppu is the perfect bottle for wine lovers who are looking for a deep full-bodied red, packed with jammy notes. 

Italy's star continues to rise in the wine world, and Puglia is one to watch. According to Wine Spectator, the future of this beautiful southern region (also known as the “Tuscany of the South”) looks increasingly bright thanks to the fact that “producers are upgrading and investing in vineyards and winery infrastructure and embracing new philosophies and techniques.”

Puglia is a land filled with traditions, culture, alluring landscapes, pristine nature, amazing food, and most importantly, amazing wine producers, like Masca del Tacco. The estate was founded in 2010 when Felice Mergè bought and restored a century-old building.

Owners and winemakers, Manlio and Felice Mergè perfectly combine traditional winemaking with modern state-of-the-art technology, with a simple yet powerful goal in mind: “honor the tradition, identity, and terroir, delivering outstanding wines made with passion, commitment, and experience.” 

The huge vineyard extends for more than 500 acres and is planted with vines with an average age of 50+ years. Syrah, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Lambrusco, and the kings of the region: Primitivo, Negroamaro, Fiano, and Susumaniello are planted on the estate. The beautiful terroir is enriched by the warmth of the land and the sea influence of the Salentina peninsula.

Masca del Tacco's amazing high quality has paid off and in the past years, it has gained the heart of some of the world's major wine critics, including the world-renowned Italian critic, Luca Maroni, who year after year awards these wines with 95+ scores.

In the Apulian dialect, Lu Ceppu means “the stump", making a reference to the strength of an ancient territory and the strong culture of wine growers who have dedicated their lives to "protect the crops and the traditions of the land."

Aging: 12 months in French oak barrels. 

Tasting Notes: 100% Negroamaro. An intense, bright ruby-red color. Aromas of redcurrant, ripe berries, and cherries are intertwined with tobacco, black pepper, red flowers, and aromatic herbs. Elegant, smooth, and full-bodied with ripe tannins.

Reviews

~96 Luca Maroni, Guide to the Best Wines of Italy

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