Viniou Reviews
The San Marzano Sessantanni Primitivo di Manduria 2017 is a remarkable red wine that highlights the full potential of the ancient Primitivo grape variety. Produced in the heart of Puglia (Apulia), one of southern Italy’s most dynamic wine regions, this cuvée combines fruit from old-vine Primitivo—many of which are over 60 years old, hence the name “Sessantanni”—to deliver depth, concentration, and classic Mediterranean flair. The 2017 vintage benefited from warm, sunny conditions, resulting in ripe, powerful fruit and rich, velvety tannins. The winemaking process involves a careful selection of grapes, often hand-harvested, followed by fermentation at controlled temperatures and an extended period of maturation, often in French and American oak barrels. This process helps impart subtle vanilla and spice notes, further enhancing the dense black fruit, dried fig, and sweet herbal characters typical of Primitivo di Manduria.
The Puglia region, nestled along Italy’s southeastern coast, boasts a hot Mediterranean climate with long, sun-drenched summers and mild winters. The soils here are predominantly red, clay-rich earth intermixed with limestone, providing ideal drainage and encouraging deep root systems for old bush-trained vines. Primitivo, believed to be genetically related to Zinfandel, thrives in these conditions, producing robust, full-bodied wines with generous alcohol levels and a touch of rustic complexity. Puglia’s winemaking heritage stretches back to ancient times, making it one of Italy’s most historic and prolific wine-producing regions, renowned for its hearty reds and warm hospitality.
Due to its opulent profile and structured tannins, the Sessantanni pairs superbly with rich, savoury dishes. It complements grilled or slow-cooked meats such as lamb or beef brisket, as well as traditional Apulian fare like orecchiette with ragù or a classic melanzane alla parmigiana. Hard cheeses such as aged pecorino or caciocavallo also make for an excellent pairing, while its ripe fruit can balance spicy Mediterranean sauces.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for at least an hour before serving is recommended to allow the aromas to fully develop and the palate to soften, showcasing the wine’s signature richness and complexity.
