2020 Zolla Primitivo di Manduria, Puglia – buy online

WHO?

Vigneti del Salento is owned by the Farnese group, while I Muri is their venture in Puglia. Winemaker Filippo Baccalaro is the gray eminence behind this label. Filippo, a native of Piedmont, who has been working in Puglia for 20 years, was captivated by the generous aromas abundant in local grapes. With minimal technological intervention but with a wealth of practical knowledge, he masterfully transfers the very essence of the terroir into the glass.

WHERE?

Puglia is located at the “heel” of Italy. This hot and dry area is cooled by sea breezes. The vineyards are situated between the provinces of Sava and Manduria, right in the heart of the Primitivo di Manduria appellation. The warmth of the sun and the proximity to the Ionian Sea are the most important factors in the production of Primitivo. The bush-trained vine system called “albarello” is typical for this region, with vines over 30 years old that give exceptional aromatic characteristics.

WHY?

This Primitivo ages for a year in a combination of new and used American and French oak barrels and comes from specially selected grapes, so-called double selection – in the vineyard and in the cellar. It has a ruby red color with purple reflections. The sumptuous nose includes aromas of cherries, blackberries, and black currants framed in an oak cloak of sweet spices like vanilla, coffee, and caramel. The wine is full-bodied, with velvety tannins, restrained power, and a long finish on the palate.