Primitivo di Manduria 'Papale' Varvaglione 2022

The Apulian producer Varvaglione presents Primitivo di Manduria 'Papale', a pure Primitivo that stands out for its intensity and fullness. Together with Negroamaro, Primitivo is the most widespread and popular indigenous grape variety in Apulia, with about 15 per cent of the entire regional vineyard area. Probably arrived in Apulian territory via the Adriatic Sea, in particular from the coast of Croatia, Primitivo was widely spread in the region during the 17th century by Benedictine monks. Particularly in the Manduria area, where it has been cultivated on a permanent basis since the end of the 19th century, Primitivo is able to reach some of its highest quality expressions.

Varvaglione Primitivo di Manduria 'Papale' is a 100% Primitivo from vines grown in the Manduria area, an area characterised by a warm and dry climate. After the harvest, the grapes are transferred to the winery, where the red wine-making process is carried out through alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 26-28 °C, with maceration on the skins. Once the malolactic fermentation, which further refines the wine's taste, is complete, the mass is racked into French oak tonneaux for ageing for at least 8 months, followed by a further brief sojourn in the bottle before final release.

The Primitivo di Manduria 'Papale' from the Taranto Varvaglione winery is an intense ruby red colour. Strong hints of jammy wild berries emerge from the glass, such as raspberry, blackberry, cherry and blackcurrant, combined with delicate hints of vanilla, cocoa and liquorice on the finish. The progression on the palate emerges for warmth, softness and roundness, sensations that contribute to the excellent overall structure and energetic impact of the sip, well supported by ripe tannin.