What kind of wine is Salento Primitivo IGP 'Primiter' 2022 - Michele Calò?

The Salento Primitivo IGP 'Primiter' 2022 - Michele Calò is an intense and enveloping red wine, an authentic expression of the Salento territory and the Calò family's winemaking tradition. Made from 100% Primitivo grapes, this wine embodies the generous character of Puglia: a combination of warmth, softness, and structure. The name "Primiter," from the Latin "prima scelta" (first choice), already indicates its position as a flagship label, designed for those seeking a full-bodied yet balanced red, capable of combining power and harmony.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by a warm and dry summer, mitigated by the typical Salento sea breezes that preserved freshness and aromas in the grapes. The harvest, which took place at full ripeness, yielded a Primitivo with a rich and well-balanced aromatic profile, where sugars and acidity coexist in perfect equilibrium, ensuring concentration and pleasantness.

Winemaking and Aging

Winemaking follows a traditional approach with controlled temperature fermentation to best preserve the aromatic profile of the grape variety. After about two weeks of maceration on the skins – essential for extracting color, tannins, and aromas – 60% of the wine ages in stainless steel, while the remaining 40% rests in small precious oak barrels. This wood aging contributes to greater complexity, rounding out the tannins and imparting elegant spicy notes.

Tasting Notes

The Salento Primitivo IGP 'Primiter' 2022 - Michele Calò captivates at first glance and confirms its quality at every stage of the tasting.

Color

Deep ruby red with violet reflections, dense and brilliant, indicative of its concentration and the maturity of the grapes.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with aromas of ripe red fruits – cherry, plum, and blackberry – accompanied by nuances of vanilla, cocoa, and light balsamic notes. The balance between the fruity and spicy components is harmonious and immediately invites tasting.

Palate

On the palate, it is full-bodied, soft, and well-structured. The tannins – the natural substances present in the grape skins that give character and body – are silky and perfectly integrated. The persistence is long, with a warm and pleasantly fruity finish.

Food Pairings for Salento Primitivo IGP 'Primiter' 2022 - Michele Calò

This wine is best expressed when paired with flavorful and structured dishes. Ideal with:

• grilled or roasted red meats, such as T-bone steaks or baked lamb;
• pasta dishes with meat sauces or Puglian ragù;
• aged cheeses with a strong flavor;
• traditional Mediterranean dishes based on tomato and spices.

It is also an excellent meditation wine, to be enjoyed quietly at the end of the evening.

Storage and Aging

For those wondering how to store Salento Primitivo IGP 'Primiter' 2022 - Michele Calò, it is important to keep it in a cool, dark environment with a constant temperature of around 14-16 °C. It should be stored horizontally, so that the cork remains slightly moist. Thanks to its structure and the perfect balance between alcohol, tannin, and acidity, it can be aged in the cellar for several years. Over time, it will develop more complex aromas and greater roundness, further revealing the quality and craftsmanship of the Calò family.