What kind of wine is Primitivo di Manduria DOC 'Villa Santera' 2022 - Leone de Castris

The Primitivo di Manduria DOC 'Villa Santera' 2022 - Leone de Castris represents one of the most authentic and intense expressions of the Apulian territory. It is made from 100% Primitivo grapes, an indigenous varietal emblematic of this area, known for its natural richness in sugars and for its deep and enveloping aromas. It is a full-bodied yet surprisingly balanced wine, which aims to enhance the generous character of Salento with a soft and enveloping drinkability.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by a warm and dry climate, perfect for enhancing the optimal ripening of the Primitivo grapes. Temperature excursions between day and night favored aromatic concentration and an ideal balance between sugars, acidity, and structure. The result is a wine of great harmony, intense and velvety, with a broad and fruity aromatic profile.

Winemaking and Aging

For the Primitivo di Manduria DOC 'Villa Santera' 2022 - Leone de Castris, fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature of around 20-22°C, to preserve the varietal aromas. Maceration on the skins, which consists of leaving the must in contact with the solid parts of the grape to extract color and tannins, lasts for several days. Subsequently, the wine ages for about 6 months in oak barrels, where it acquires complexity and roundness, before completing its journey in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

The Primitivo di Manduria DOC 'Villa Santera' 2022 - Leone de Castris captivates with its ability to combine intensity and finesse. Each stage of the tasting reveals details that speak of sun, warmth, and Apulian tradition.

Color

Visually, it presents a deep ruby red with purplish reflections, typical of young Primitivos, a sign of vitality and aromatic strength.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with generous notes of ripe red fruit such as cherry, black cherry, and plum, followed by hints of sweet spices, vanilla, and a light touch of toastiness due to aging in wood. The bouquet is broad and immediately seductive.

Palate

On the palate, it is soft, warm, and full-bodied, with silky and well-integrated tannins. The structure is important but balanced by a pleasant freshness that makes it easy to drink. The finish is long and fruity, with returns of jam and spices.

What dishes to pair with Primitivo di Manduria DOC 'Villa Santera' 2022 - Leone de Castris

This wine is perfect for accompanying savory and rich dishes, typical of Mediterranean tradition. Thanks to its structure and aromatic intensity, it enhances meat-based preparations and aged cheeses.

• Grilled or oven-baked red meats
• Stews and braised meats
• Apulian cuisine dishes, such as orecchiette with ragù or with braciole
• Aged or blue cheeses

Also try it with spicy and slightly hot dishes, with which it finds a perfect balance thanks to its natural sweetness.

Storage and Aging: how to store Primitivo di Manduria DOC 'Villa Santera' 2022 - Leone de Castris wine

To preserve its characteristics intact, the Primitivo di Manduria DOC 'Villa Santera' 2022 - Leone de Castris should be stored in a cool, dark place with controlled humidity. The ideal temperature is between 14 and 16°C, avoiding temperature fluctuations or exposure to direct light. The bottle must be kept horizontally, so that the cork remains constantly moist.

This wine, thanks to its structure and concentration, has excellent aging potential. It can be enjoyed immediately to appreciate its full fruitiness, but it also provides great satisfaction after 5-7 years of aging in the cellar, during which it develops more complex and spicy nuances.