The 2012 Primitivo di Manduria Es is a landmark wine for Puglia. It is also a very controversial one that had me scratching my head for month. Before I go on, let me just underline the massive appeal and seductiveness of this wine. Let me also say that is it full of flaws. Fino offers one of those rare occasions when something that is not perfect sings to the senses. It is an asymmetric wine, and that's what makes it special. The massive nose is redolent of dark blackberry and red apple, (there are some aldehydic tones here as well) with chewy sweetness and thick texture in the mouth. It is an Amarone style wine from one of the warmest winemaking regions in Southern Italy. I was so charmed by this wine that I had it analyzed in a laboratory and discovered that all its levels (alcohol, extract and more) are off the charts. Despite that power, the wine shows impressive integration. I debated for a long time, and ultimately decided to succumb to what is a highly individualistic expression from Puglia. Bravo!

Ripe and distinctive, this velvety red offers layers of rich fig paste, date and steeped black cherry notes, showing flavors of black olive tapenade, hoisin, dried marjoram, mocha and mineral. The firm, fine-grained tannins are swathed in a mouthwatering palate. Drink now through 2025. 2,500 cases made, 100 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / South / Puglia / Primitivo di Manduria Select to Add