Tenuta di Somaro Aglianico Primitivo 2016

Italy, a country with over 1,000 indigenous grape varieties, really rewards the explorer. Tucked away amidst mountains, olive groves and rugged hillsides, there are small vineyard plots still waiting to be discovered – and quality-obsessed winemaker Mario Ercolino has made it his mission to find them.

When he stumbled across a small parcel of gnarled, old bush vines deep in Puglia’s rolling countryside, Mario knew he had come across something special. So, he tracked down the owner and convinced him to let him coax the vines back into production, calling this special vineyard ‘Somaro’ after the local breed of donkey that originally worked the land.

This smooth, sumptuous blend of Aglianico and Primitivo – two of Southern Italy’s best-loved grapes – is the stunning result. Aglianico provides firm structure, touches of minerality and deep color, while Primitivo lends bold blackberry flavor. Six months of fine oak aging rounds out the fruit-rich palate, with subtle notes of vanilla and leather.

Sporting a prestigious gold medal and 93 points from Luca Maroni, this blockbuster is the perfect partner for a long, leisurely meal, it’ll shine with roast beef, spicy pasta and more.

Hurry for your share of this highly acclaimed southern Italian charmer.