San Marzano Collezione Cinquanta

Drink now or cellar for up to 6 years. No need to decant before serving. The Collezione Cinquanta celebrates the founding of Cantine San Marzano over fifty years ago by 19 winemakers in the small village of San Marzano. Located in the heart of the Primitivo di Manduria region, San Marzano sits between the Ionian and Adriatic seas which help to moderate the warm Mediterranean climate. Conditions here are ideal for producing excellent Primitivo and Negroamaro red wines thanks to the hot summer days and cooling breezes from the nearby coast which help to preserve freshness in the grapes. This stunning red is crafted with grapes sourced from vines planted on Puglia’s characteristic terra rossa or “red soil’ which is naturally rich in iron and clay-based so it can retain much-needed moisture. Following the harvest in September the grapes are fermented and the new wine is then aged in French oak barrels for 12 months. The result is a silky smooth red that exudes rich aromas of blackberries, spice and plum jam. The first sip reveals a full body, gentle tannins, enticing dark berry, plum and dried herb flavours, and a long finish. The bold character of the Collezione Cinquanta makes it a superb partner for red meat like a prime steak, venison stew, or pasta accompanied by a hearty tomato sauce.

Price: £22.07 from 8wines UK