2014 San Marzano 'Talo' Primitivo di Manduria, Puglia

3 glasses – Gambero Rosso, 5 gold medals

The name Primitivo, also known as Zinfandel, translates roughly as ‘early one’ and refers to the variety's early-ripening nature.

Primitivo di Manduria is a main red-wine of Apulia, Italy's Southern region, with its origin dating back to 18th century having probably been brought from Dalmatia.

Aged in French and American oak barrels the 2013 San Marzano Primitivo di Manduria is ruby red colour enriched with violet reflections; generous bouquet, which recalls ripe cherries and plums, with pleasant notes of cocoa and vanilla.

This wine has a velvety texture, softened by the warmth of the Primitivo grapes; the finish offers notes of persistent sweetness. It is drinking beautifully now, but will get better next 5 years, if you can keep your hands off it.

Winery recent awards: Best Wine Producer of the Year, Sélections Mondiales des Vins Canada 2015 Highly commended Wine Label Contest, Sélections Mondiales des Vins Canada 2015 European Producer of the Year, Sommelier Wine Awards 2015 Best Producer of Puglia, Annuario dei Migliori Vini Italiani Luca Maroni 2015 Best Producer of Italy, Annuario dei Migliori Vini Italiani Luca Maroni 2014