Description

PRODUCER:
In 1962, nineteen vine growers from San Marzano combined their efforts to establish “Cantine San Marzano”. Over the years, the cooperative has grown significantly and now comprises over 1200 vine growers. They are now one of the most professional, forward-thinking companies in Southern Italy, with a reputation for producing great wines. Their production philosophy is simple but uncompromising; “passion” and “competence” are the bywords at the heart of their everyday activity.

VINEYARD:
The vineyard is situated approximately 100 metres above sea level, in IGP Salento. The vines benefit from high average temperatures and relatively low rainfall. The soils are shallow and clayey, interspersed with rocks, which provides a good balance between drainage and water retention. The vines are espalier trained, which optimises sun exposure in this hot, dry climate to promote ripening, while controlling vine vigour and disease. Treatments are overseen by an agronomist and tailored to the seasonal needs, using copper and sulphur. Harvesting takes place in the cool of the early morning during the first week of September, once optimal ripeness has been achieved. Mechanical harvesters are employed for the majority of the vineyard, with manual harvesting reserved for steeper, less accessible areas.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes underwent temperature-controlled maceration at 25°C for approximately 10 days to extract the desired level of colour, flavour and fine tannins. Alcoholic fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with yeasts specially selected for Primitivo. Stirring was carried out twice daily, adjusting the duration as needed throughout fermentation. The wine was made in an unoaked style to preserve the vibrancy of fruit and varietal characteristics.

TASTING NOTE:
Aromatic notes of plum and cherry with hints of rosemary and vanilla prelude a full-bodied, beautifully balanced palate, which is brimming with juicy fruit.

GRAPES:
Primitivo 100%.