Gold Cross Salento I.L. Ruffino 1952
The 1952 Gold Cross Salento, also known as Vecchio Salento Bianco, is a fortified wine produced by I.L. Ruffino. Classified as a "Vino Liquoroso," this historic release from the 1952 vintage was crafted by Casa Ruffino and underwent a traditional production method that included an extended period of aging and refinement in oak barrels.
This wine originates from Salento, a prominent wine-producing area located in the southernmost part of the Italian region of Puglia. Situated on the "heel of the boot" between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, the area encompasses the provinces of Lecce, Brindisi, and Taranto. Salento benefits from a distinct Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters, with temperatures moderated by maritime winds blowing from both sides of the peninsula.
The vineyards in this part of Puglia are planted on well-draining red and calcareous soils situated over a limestone bedrock, creating ideal conditions for Mediterranean grape varieties. While the area is widely recognized for cultivating indigenous grapes such as Negroamaro, Malvasia Nera, and Primitivo, it also holds a strong historical tradition for producing fortified wines, reflecting the deep-rooted viticultural practices of southern Italy.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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How it handles
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Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
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