Primitivo di Manduria Es comes from the red soils typical of the area, from grapes grown using the alberello method, essential for withstanding Manduria’s relentless heat. Irrigation and fertilisation are strictly prohibited. Harvesting begins in late August, after allowing the bunches to dry slightly on the vine. After careful sorting on the sorting table, the bunches are placed in stainless steel vats for maceration on the skins for 15–20 days, before being racked and left to mature for nine months in barriques, equally divided between first and second-use barrels. Finally, the wine is stabilised for a further nine months in the bottle.
A sparkling ruby red, heralding a striking nose built on raisins and ripe red fruits, underpinned by notes of tobacco and spices. On the palate, complexity is accompanied by a perfect balance between savouriness and fullness, framed by perfectly integrated tannins that culminate in an invigorating mentholated finish.
The pairing intended for the heads of state’s cheeses can undoubtedly be extended to first and second courses based on red meats, even those with a substantial structure.
To fully appreciate its style, this wine should be served at a temperature of 16–18°C.