2020 L'arca Salice Salentino D.O.C.

If you could only pick a few wines to take with you on your own personal ark, which would you choose? If you’re Piergiorgio Castellani, this lush Negroamaro/Malvasia Nera blend would definitely be on the manifest. (In fact, that’s why he’s called it “L’arca.”) Why’d it make the cut? Negroamaro is one of the classic grapes of Puglia—the “heel” of Italy’s boot—famous for producing inky-black reds with loads of character. Hailing from the prestigious Salice Salentino district, this one’s sensationally intense, and offers up aromas and flavors of wild blackberries, tobacco leaf, and subtle violet flowers. (And did we mention every release wins major awards—the just-landed 2020 is no exception, sporting a silver from the 2021 Sommelier Challenge.) Char-grilled meats will be an ideal match, especially if there are fresh herbs or garlic involved. Or sip it at your leisure with a selection of antipasti.