We received a bottle of a Tormaresca Rosé to sample. The wine came from Ste Michelle Wine Estates. This group is a collection of wine estates from the Pacific Northwest (including Chateau Ste. Michelle), California and partnerships including Antinori, with estates in Italy, Napa Valley and Chile.

Tormaresca vineyards and winery was begun in 1998 by Marchesi Antinori. The Antinori family also owns vineyards in other areas of Italy including: Tuscany and Piedmont, and internationally in Napa Valley and Chile.

Tormaresca is located in Italy’s Apulia region. This region is located along the heel of Italy’s foot and close to the sea. Tormaresca focuses on Apulia’s indigenous varieties including Aglianico, Negroamaro and Primitivo. All Tormaresca wines are produced with estate grown grapes.

The Tenuta Carrubo estate is located in the Mandurai DOC. This estate with 40 hectares focuses on the Primitivo grape. The Masseria Maime estate, with 350 hectares of grapevines and 85 hectares of olive groves, also offers views of the Adriatic Sea. The Negroamaro grapes for the wine we enjoyed were from the Masseria Maime estate.

The Wine

The 2022 Calafuria, Salento IGT, was a rosé wine from the Tormaresca estate in the Puglia region of Italy. The wine was crafted from 100% Negroamaro grapes. The 12.5% alcohol wine had a salmon color with a red hue. The aroma was reminiscent of a red berry fruit salad with some floral notes. The taste included red raspberries, strawberries, pink grapefruit and daisies. The lively mouthfeel reflected citrus notes. The finish was crisp, fruity and had fruit yielding to mineral on the aftertaste. 

This wine pairs well with many foods. It is an excellent choice for an aperitif, or enjoyed in a rocking chair on a porch, patio or by the pool.

Cheers,
Kathy and Terry Sullivan