Produttori Di Manduria, Sonnetto, DOC, Puglia, Italy, 2019

Producer Profile

In the heel of Italy, Manduria is considered the birth place of the native Primitivo grape, and was officially recognised as such in the 1970s when a DOC was created for the region. However Produttori di Manduria had been making wines for 40 years by then, unashamedly proud of their deep affection for Primitivo.

As well as making high quality examples of Puglia's most famous vinous export, this leading producer is well versed in producing fascinating whites from Fiano and Verdeca. But it is with the poetically titled Elegia that the extraordinary levels of quality come to light. Made from old bush vines up to 50 years old it creates a wine of intense dark berry fruit with wonderful balsamic end notes and excellent balance.

Viticulture

The 100% Primitivo grapes are plucked from a 90+ year old "alberello" (bush Vine) vineyard within the Primitivo di Manduria DOP.

Winemaking

A thermo-controlled alcoholic fermentation at 22-24 °C (71-75 °F) with maceration for 3 weeks followed by 24 months in French oak barriques.

Tasting Note

Deep ruby red in colour, the bouquet is very ripe and intense with ripe blackberry and plum, fig, cracked pepper and orange rind. A hint of smoke combined with spicy notes of tobacco, leather and seducing balsamic notes on the finish. The palate is clean and full-bodied with plenty of ripe dark fruit flavours and grippy tannins. Well-balanced, with purity, complexity and persistence on the palate.

Food Matching

Perfect with game, roasted and grilled meats, casseroles and well-matured cheeses.

Awards