What kind of wine is Salento Negroamaro IGP 'Il 150' - Apollonio?

Salento Negroamaro IGP “Il 150” - Apollonio is a red wine that symbolises Salento tradition, created to celebrate 150 years of the historic Apollonio winery. Made from Negroamaro grapes from approximately forty-year-old vines, cultivated in the heart of Salento, it embodies the authentic essence of the territory: intense sun, sea winds, and calcareous-clay soils that provide a balance between freshness and structure. It is an elegant, soft, and immediate red, ideal for those who want to discover the genuine character of Negroamaro without sacrificing drinkability.

Vintage details

Each vintage of Salento Negroamaro IGP “Il 150” - Apollonio reflects the warm, dry climate typical of the Salento peninsula, with temperature excursions that favour aromatic concentration. The grapes are hand-harvested at full phenolic ripeness, ensuring a perfect balance between sugars, acidity, and tannins. The most recent vintages are appreciated for their fresh and fruity profile, with clear fragrances and a harmonious taste.

Winemaking and ageing

The winemaking process is designed to preserve the purity of the fruit and enhance the varietal character of Negroamaro. After a soft pressing, the grapes undergo a brief cold pre-maceration to gently extract colour and aromas. Fermentation, lasting about two weeks, takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. This is followed by three months of ageing in steel, which ensures the wine's balance and vibrancy. The result is a young, immediate, and approachable red, perfect to drink in its early years.

Tasting notes

Colour

In the glass, Salento Negroamaro IGP “Il 150” - Apollonio presents an intense ruby red colour with purplish reflections, a sign of youth and freshness.

Nose

The aroma is lively and fruity, with hints of ripe cherry, plum, and delicate floral notes of violet. Subtle spicy nuances are also perceived on the nose, adding complexity without overpowering the fruit's freshness.

Taste

On the palate, it is soft and balanced, with a smooth sip and silky tannins. The structure is medium but well-defined, with a fruity persistence that invites a second glass. The finish is clean, harmonious, and pleasantly rounded.

Food pairings for Salento Negroamaro IGP 'Il 150' - Apollonio

This wine pairs perfectly with simple but flavourful Mediterranean dishes. Ideal with:

• Pasta with ragù or aromatic tomato sauces
• Grilled white and red meats
• Semi-aged cheeses with a delicate flavour
• Typical Salento dishes such as bread meatballs or stuffed eggplants

It is also a versatile companion for rustic aperitifs and social evenings, thanks to its young and fresh drinkability.

Storage and ageing: how to store Salento Negroamaro IGP 'Il 150' - Apollonio wine

To preserve the aromatic freshness of Salento Negroamaro IGP “Il 150” - Apollonio, it is recommended to store it in a cool place, away from light and temperature fluctuations, with the bottle lying down to keep the cork moist. The ideal serving temperature is around 16-18°C. Although designed for relatively young consumption, it can evolve for 3-4 years, developing softer and more complex notes over time.