Wines Primitivo di Manduria Brunilde di Menzione - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Brunilde di Menzione Primitivo di Manduria 2018 is a striking red wine from the sun-soaked region of Puglia in southern Italy. Crafted from 100% Primitivo grapes, this vintage typifies the robust, full-bodied character the varietal is known for. The 2018 vintage in Puglia benefitted from a warm growing season, yielding ripe, concentrated fruit. The terroir of Manduria, marked by a unique combination of iron-rich clay and sandy soils over limestone, imparts an unmistakable depth and complex minerality to the wine. Vinification is traditionally executed with an emphasis on extracting vibrant colour and tannins, followed by careful maturation, often in a combination of stainless steel and oak, which serves to enhance the natural richness without overwhelming the exuberant fruit. The result is a wine offering aromas of ripe black cherry, plum jam, and blackberry, layered with hints of sweet spices, cocoa, and tobacco. On the palate, Primitivo di Manduria is plush and generous, displaying velvety tannins and a lingering, warming finish.

The Puglia region is one of Italy’s most historic wine-growing areas, renowned for its long hours of sunshine and cooling breezes from the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The Mediterranean climate promotes optimal ripening, contributing to the generous alcohol levels and lush fruit profile typical of Primitivo wines. The soils of Manduria, a small town in the Salento peninsula, are especially praised for their ability to retain moisture, sustaining the vines through the region’s hot summers. Puglia itself has seen a renaissance in recent decades, evolving from a region primarily known for bulk wines to one producing some of Italy’s boldest and most expressive reds.

This Primitivo di Manduria pairs beautifully with hearty dishes, its richness complementing grilled lamb with rosemary, slow-cooked beef in tomato sauce (such as braciole), or even local dishes like orecchiette with sausage and tomato. Mature cheeses such as aged pecorino or Parmigiano Reggiano make wonderful companions, as do savoury vegetable gratins.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour before serving will allow the wine to open up and fully reveal its aromatics and supple texture. This Primitivo is perfect for immediate enjoyment or for cellaring over the next several years.