Wines Primitivo del Salento Masso Antico - Primitivo Appassito Salento - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Masso Antico’s 2023 Primitivo del Salento IGT is an expressive Italian red that embodies the warmth and depth of Southern Italy. This wine is crafted primarily from the Primitivo grape, cultivated in the Salento area of Puglia. The "Appassito" technique is used in this cuvée: a portion of the grapes are carefully dried before fermentation, concentrating their sugars and flavours. The 2023 vintage enjoyed generous sun, imbuing the wine with opulent fruitiness. Expect a deep garnet colour and an intense bouquet of ripe blackberries, plums, sweet spices, and a hint of dried fruit. On the palate, it’s velvety and full-bodied, with lush tannins, a touch of vanilla from subtle oak ageing, and an attractive lingering finish.

The Salento subregion lies at the heel of Italy’s boot, in Puglia. This area benefits from a typically Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The warmth and constant sunshine allow Primitivo grapes to reach exceptional ripeness, while breezes from the Adriatic and Ionian Seas moderate the heat. Local soils are a mix of clay and limestone, providing drainage and imparting a gentle minerality. Viticulture in Puglia boasts ancient traditions, and the region is celebrated for producing robust, fruit-driven reds; Primitivo is one of its most iconic varietals, celebrated for both its richness and versatility.

A wine this exuberant desires flavourful food pairings. It will shine beside slow-cooked meats like lamb shank or beef ragù, and it elevates classic Italian fare such as aubergine parmigiana or pasta with spicy tomato sauce. For an authentic regional experience, try it with “Bombette Pugliesi” (stuffed pork rolls) or a hearty orecchiette with rich meat sauce. Strong cheeses like aged Pecorino or Caciocavallo also make a fine match.

For optimal expression, serve this Primitivo del Salento at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help soften the tannins and open the bouquet, allowing you to savour all the wine’s precious Mediterranean warmth and complexity.