When Puglia decides to compete with the great international reds, it does so in its own way, in a rugged and magnificent territory. This is where labels such as this Locone, an interesting Cabernet Sauvignon, are born. The basic idea is to bring a “foreign” grape variety to the highest levels, enhancing its elegant and fresh character thanks to a terroir that does not forgive distractions. The signature is that of the authoritative Antinori family. We are in the Castel del Monte DOC area, an oasis in the Alta Murgia, a part of Puglia that breaks the stereotype of flat, red earth. Here, the vineyards of Tenuta Bocca di Lupo are located about 300 metres above sea level, on karstic and calcareous soils, white and poor, which force the roots to go deep. The name Locone is in itself a curiosity that tells the story of this land: it is inspired by the artificial lake of the same name in the Minervino Murge area. In a karst environment, where water is precious, this hydrological basin is vital for the balance of the local fauna and flora and, in a sense, for giving life to this wine. In this context, Cabernet does not seek only power, but lightens up, maintaining a solid yet graceful structure. In addition, the organic management of the vineyards is a seal that guarantees an even more authentic and clean link with the territory. In the cellar, after delicate maceration, the wine matures in oak barriques where it also undergoes malolactic fermentation, completing the ageing process that makes it soft and complex. This passage in wood does not cover the fruit, but accompanies it, adding nuances and harmony. Bright purple red in colour, when you bring the glass to your nose, you are enveloped by an intriguing bouquet. The fruity sensations of raspberry and ripe black cherries are immediately perceived, but they quickly combine with the fresh and unexpected scents of Mediterranean scrub. The finish is embellished with darker notes of bitter cocoa and liquorice. In the mouth, it is soft and enveloping, without being heavy. The tannic texture is mature and fine-grained, like velvet, and perfectly balances the smoothness and freshness of the sip. This red has the makings of a great ageing wine, capable of evolving magnificently for 10-15 years in the cellar. An opportunity not to be missed to see how it transforms over time.