The heel of the Italian boot is where most of the country’s table grapes are grown. In terms of wines, it is best known for two bold red varieties that have a huge following in the UK. These are Primitivo, better known by its American name Zinfandel, and the local grape variety Negroamaro. Some winemakers can work wonders with these grapes, creating rich wines with flavors of blackberry, black plum, coffee and vanilla.
Primitivo
Dark and full-bodied, Primitivo wines are typically made from grapes grown in the center of Puglia, between Bari and Matera. While many Primitivo wines are made and sold as base wines, IGT wines have a few notable exceptions – DOC Gioia del Colle with its tangy acidity and DOC Primitivo di Maduria, which is grown further south and typically has a deeper flavor.
What is the flavor of Primitivo? These inky wines have rich and ripe flavors, packed with tannins and alcohol for a really powerful punch. Expect aromas of black fruit compote and flavors of leather, blueberries and figs.
Negroamaro
Negroamaro has been grown in Puglia for at least 1500 years and its name translates to “black and bitter”. The best examples come from the Salento peninsula, especially the Salice Salentino DOC. Here, the warm Mediterranean climate promotes the ripening of the grapes, making them juicy, sweet and flavorful, while the cooling effect of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas keeps the fruit fresh. Negramaro is usually used to make bright red wines, but it is sometimes used for rosé wine as well.
What is the flavor of Negroamaro? Dark and spicy, Negroamaro combines flavors of ripe black fruit with spicy and herbal notes of clove, cinnamon and thyme.
