Origin
The vineyards are located in the heart of the Primitivo di Manduria DOC, between the towns of Taranto and Manduria from which the appellation gets its name. The climate is characterised by high average temperatures with hot summers, contrasted with cool nights which helps to lengthen the ripening process. Manduria is considered to be the finest of all areas in Southern Italy for Primitivo.
The DOC is situated on the ‘heel’ of Italy in the historical region of Puglia, famous for its prolific olive and grape production; historically, many wines were used for blending, but a number of producers such as San Marzano have turned to more focused, quality driven production which in turn has raised the region’s profile on the international stage.
Producer
Cantine San Marzano was founded in 1962 when 19 long established families came together to pull their resources and expertise. Since then members have grown to over 1200 and the focus remains solidly on quality aligned to authenticity – promoting both the individuality of local grapes and regions. Under the stewardship of winemaker Caterina Bellanova their wines are now broadly acknowledged as some of the finest in the region – duly receiving multiple awards at international competitions.
Grape Variety
100% Primitivo.
The Primitivo grape gets its name due to its tendency to ripen early. Fermentation with selected yeast precedes ageing in French and American wood barrels for 6 months. Primitivo is now broadly acknowledged as being the same grape as Zinfandel in the US!
Food Match
Cries out for a big, hearty red meat dish – either grilled, roasted or in a ragout, which would go quite naturally and empathetically with pasta!
Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Alcohol Percentage
14%
jack –
Drinking this reminds me of a warm summers evening in Puglia, the sun is setting and turning the horizon a golden orange colour. Definitely berry fruits and medium to full bodied.
William –
This is one of the best Primitivos I’ve tasted and really is great value at £12. Smoky nose with a faint hint of liquorice too. A rich, full bodied red that tastes of ripe, dark fruit that makes you think of the sun in the countryside of southern Italy. Unlike some primitivos, this isn’t at all jammy or cloyingly sweet. The oak is well-judged and the tannins are nicely integrated, giving the wine a rounded, smooth finish. Perfect with all the dishes you’d expect; pizza, ragu and gnocchi but big and ‘serious’ enough that it would comfortably go with a steak. I’ve been impressed with the wines I’ve ordered from WineTrust so far but this is a real standout for the money.
Will –
A delicious Primitivo. Exactly what you would want from such a wine. It’s so good that we’ve returned to reorder as it is simply lovely!
hewittgareth –
Really enjoyed this, reminded just how good Primativo can be! Found it very rich with intense ripe cherry but a lovely velvety finish and balanced sweetness, a great match to our homemade pizza