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Primitivo Appassimento

2021 Salento Zinfandel

The Mercante Primitivo Appassimento is a captivating red wine hailing from the picturesque Salento region in southern Italy. This 2021 vintage showcases the signature traits of Zinfandel with its rich, bold character and delightful complexity. The wine is full-bodied, offering a lush mouthfeel that envelops the palate with layers of dark fruit flavors such as ripe blackberries and plums, complemented by hints of chocolate and spice. Its acidity is balanced yet lively, providing a refreshing lift that enhances the wine's fruit-forward nature. The tannins are soft and approachable, lending structure without overwhelming the overall harmony. This dry wine invites exploration and pairs beautifully with hearty dishes, making it a true pleasure for any wine enthusiast.

Tasting notes:


Blackberry

Blackberry

Plum

Plum

Black Pepper

Black Pepper

Flavor profile:


Acidity Mild

Low Pronounced

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Pairs well with:


Barbecued Ribs, Barbecue Chicken, BBQ Pork Ribs

Region:


Puglia
Puglia

The heel of Italy's "boot," sunny Puglia (the "g" is silent), is famed for its olive oils, almonds and of course, its rich, full-bodied wines. Although dry and intensely hot in the summer, Puglia has coastlines on three sides, providing cool Mediterranean breezes to alleviate the daytime heat. Primitivo (known in the US as Zinfandel) does well here, with other popular red varieties including Sangiovese and Negroamaro. But it is not all about reds in Puglia: the local Fiano grape produces gloriously nutty, tropical-flavored white, while Falanghina makes intensely fruity wines with citrus blossom notes.

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