PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA DOP Sessantanni Typology: Red Grape variety: Primitivo Denomination: Primitivo di Manduria DOP Cultivation: Trees at least sixty years old Planting density: 5,000 vines per hectare Production area: Valle del Sessantanni, about 40 hectares between San Marzano and Sava (TA). The thermal values characterise a rather warm environment with very low annual rainfall and very high temperature variations, which has a positive effect on the quality of the grapes. This is the classic growing area for Primitivo di Manduria PDO. Soil: Red residual soil with a fine texture, calcareous substrate and sparse rock outcrops. The famous red hue of these soils is due to the high content of iron oxides. Harvest: Mid-September Vinification: Hand-picking of slightly overripe grapes; destemming and maceration, maceration at 8°C for 24-48 hours before fermentation. Thermally controlled maceration and alcoholic fermentation with selected yeasts for about 10 days at 24-26°C. Final bottling with soft presses. Maturation: Malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks followed by 12 months in French and American oak barriques. Organoleptic characteristics: Very deep and elegant ruby red colour; rich and complex bouquet, fruity with notes of plums, cherry jam with a slight spiciness and hints of tobacco. A wine of great body, soft and rich in noble tannins, with a finish that offers notes of cocoa, coffee and vanilla. Pairings: Strong first courses, red meat and game. Serve at: 18°C