2020 Cielo e Terra De Conti Appassimento IGT Organic, Puglia

98 points lucamaroni.it

The Cielo e Terra De Conti Appassimento IGT Organic from Puglia is a rich, modern southern Italian red that combines tradition with sustainability. Cielo e Terra, a historic Veneto-based family winery dating back to 1908, has partnered with local growers in Puglia to craft wines that capture the region’s warmth while emphasising organic vineyard practices. The “appassimento” style, where grapes are partially dried before fermentation, adds intensity, texture and a touch of natural sweetness, creating a wine that feels both indulgent and authentic.

In the glass it shows a deep garnet colour. The nose is generous with aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, blackberry compote and dried fig, lifted by hints of chocolate, sweet spice, vanilla and a whisper of balsamic. The palate is plush and velvety, brimming with concentrated dark fruit, raisins and mocha, layered with liquorice and savoury spice. Gentle tannins and a smooth, warming finish give it a crowd-pleasing richness without losing balance. Certified organic, it’s a wine that respects both the land and the glass.

This style begs for hearty food pairings. Think slow-cooked beef ragu, osso buco, roast lamb with rosemary, or wood-fired pizza loaded with rich toppings. It also pairs beautifully with aged cheeses like provolone piccante or Parmigiano Reggiano. While it drinks beautifully now, it has 5 to 7 years of cellaring potential, softening further into an earthier, spicier style.

The De Conti Appassimento has been praised internationally as a superb value wine, offering Amarone-like richness at a fraction of the price. It’s the perfect introduction to Puglia’s modern organic movement, showing how thoughtful winemaking and ancient techniques can produce wines of both substance and style.