Montepulciano Roko il Vagabondo 2024, Delinquente Wine Co

The wine opens with a deep, inky hue and a nose that’s all savory charm—think black olives, cured meats, and a splash of balsamic, layered over brambly blackberry and cherry. It’s a wine that greets you with both grit and grace, inviting you into a landscape of earthy richness balanced by wild, vibrant fruit. On the palate, it’s juicy yet structured, with mouthwatering acidity and a gentle grip of tannins. Flavors of tart plum, dark berries, and a hint of dried herbs unfold with a savory, almost umami-like depth. The finish is bright and snappy, with just enough edge to make you reach for another sip—or a salty snack. It’s rustic, raw, and totally alive. The grapes for this wine come from the Bassham Family Organic vineyard in South Australia’s Riverland region. The terroir is defined by hot, arid summers, abundant sunshine, and cooling river breezes. The soils are predominantly red sandy loam over limestone—well-draining and low in fertility—encouraging deep roots and low-yielding vin