Primitivo di Manduria "Carlone" Sampietrana 2022

Primitivo di Manduria “Carlone” 2022 from Cantina Sampietrana is a delicious, full-bodied red wine from sunny Puglia in southern Italy, made purely from Primitivo grapes that ripen perfectly on those warm, calcareous soils around Manduria. The cooperative hand-picks them, ferments in tanks, and ages part on barriques for six to twelve months, adding that extra layer of complexity without overpowering the fruit. The 2022 vintage was top-notch with plenty of sun and concentrated flavors, resulting in a robust wine around 14.5% alcohol that feels sultry and charming.

When you pour it, the aroma jumps out with ripe black cherries, blackberries, and juicy plums, mixed with cocoa, vanilla, clove, and a subtle hint of tobacco and leather from the oak. In the mouth, it’s intense and rich, with a jammy mouthfeel, soft polished tannins, and fresh acidity that balances everything. The finish is long and warm, with lingering spices and fruit notes that stick around.
In short, this is Puglia in a glass: powerful but not heavy, charming and versatile. Drink it young for the fruit or cellar it a few years for more tertiary notes like leather and truffle. A real crowd-pleaser for red wine lovers who dig southern power.