Rivera’s flagship red and one of Puglia’s benchmark age-worthy wines, led by the native Nero di Troia grape with Montepulciano adding roundness and suppleness. The 2018 shows bright garnet colour with layered aromas of ripe red berries, dark cherry, plum, leather, pipe tobacco, liquorice, spice and a savoury earthy note. The palate is structured yet elegant, with firm but polished tannins, lively acidity and a long, complex finish. Excellent with grilled ribeye, roast lamb, beef ragu, braised short ribs, game, mushroom risotto, aged pecorino, hard cheeses and herb-roasted pork.