12 e Mezzo Primitivo del Salento IGP - Varvaglione

The 12 e Mezzo Primitivo del Salento by Varvaglione enters the glass with a dense yet not fully opaque ruby red. This modern Primitivo immediately unveils an expressive bouquet full of red and black fruits. Ripe plums and juicy black cherries come to mind, complemented by blue and blackcurrant nuances. Delicate hints of vanilla and fragrant cocoa notes perfectly round out the bouquet of the 12 e Mezzo Primitivo.

On the palate, the Varvaglione 12 e Mezzo Primitivo del Salento starts pleasantly fresh and light-footed. It’s so nice (better: to taste) that Primitivo can also work as a light summer wine and does not have to be powerful in the bottle or in the glass. Here, fruity freshness, restrained residual sweetness, and fine tannins dominate. A Primitivo that, when slightly chilled, suits any season.

Vinification of the 12 e Mezzo Primitivo by Varvaglione

For this series, Marzia, Angelo, and Francesca clearly addressed the biggest issue many wine drinkers have with red wines from Apulia – the high alcohol content. For their 12 e Mezzo series, the three set a strict goal, as indicated by the name: the wines should not exceed 12.5% ABV. By harvesting some of the grapes very early, they ensure a moderate alcohol level and at the same time provide a freshness that some red wines from Southern Italy lack.

After fermentation, the 12 e Mezzo Primitivo ages for another 3-6 months in American oak barriques, adding spice and complexity to its fruit.

Food pairing recommendations for the Varvaglione Primitivo from the 12 e Mezzo series

Enjoy this pleasantly light-footed red wine from Apulia with pork medallions with bacon and grilled mushrooms, or with spicy lamb loin chops served with couscous and Ras el Hanout.

Awards for the 12 e Mezzo Primitivo by Varvaglione

• Luca Maroni: 94 points for 2017
• Berlin Wine Trophy: Silver for 2017
• Sakura Japan Women's Wine Trophy: Silver for 2017
• Mundus Vini: Silver for 2016
• Berlin Wine Trophy: Gold for 2015
• Concours Mondial de Bruxelles: Silver for 2015
• Luca Maroni: 90 points for 2015

• More products from Varvaglione