1997 Francesco Candido Salice Salentino Riserva

[RAD]

Foodie, this one's for you.

My first experimentation with this wine. For those of you who don't know (including me before I read the label), a blend of Negro Amaro and Malvasia Nera. Attractive clear blood ruby. Nice cherry, leather, and pepper on the nose. Light to medium bodied. Good acidity. Fruity palate fades to pleasant lightweight tannins and another touch of leather and tobacco on the effortless finish. Gives chiantis costing 4-6x this price a run for their money.

Outstanding value at $5.49! Bet it's even better with food--getting ready to wash it down with macaroni al sugo (tomato sauce, ground beef, carrots, celery, garlic) from my favorite takeout joint. 88/97.

RAD

PS Yes, even better with food! Had I not completely obliterated my monthly wine budget on my recent Napa/Sonoma trip, I'd be headin' for the store for 3 cases as we speak.

[This message has been edited by RAD (edited 05-17-2001).]