About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The vineyards are in Salento, in southern Puglia, where limestone and alluvial soils are common. Limestone helps the grapes retain acidity despite the hot climate, while the alluvial soils give the vines enough moisture and nutrients. The sunny, warm Mediterranean climate lets the grapes ripen fully and reach high sugar levels and a rich range of aromas.
Grapes
Zinfandel is genetically identical to Italy's Primitivo. The popularity of Californian Zinfandel led some Puglian producers to use the name for export markets.
Vinification
The grapes are fully destemmed and fermented in cement tanks, which keep the temperature stable without affecting flavour and help preserve a clean fruit profile. After fermentation the wine spends a short time in stainless steel tanks, which keeps it fresh and juicy.
Tasting profile
Juicy, rounded and generous, with a lively southern Italian character, rich fruit and a soft, balanced style. Notes of ripe berries, soft tannins and a rounded texture, in good balance.
Serving and pairing
Suited to summer barbecue and to meat dishes in the colder months.
Label / history
The Neapolitan Zecca family moved to Italy in 1500 and began farming its estates. In 1935 Count Alcibiade Zecca began making wine from the family's vineyards, and a cellar was built in Leverano. After the Second World War his son, Count Giuseppe, introduced new grape-growing and winemaking technologies and began bottling the wine. Today Alcibiade's heirs Francesco, Luciano and Mario run the business, from choosing vineyard sites and agricultural methods to deciding harvest time and bottling. The winery farms 320 ha between Leverano and Salice Salentino, across four estates: Cantalupi, Saraceno, Donna Marzia and Santo Stefano. Varieties grown are Primitivo, Negroamaro, Malmsey, Aglianico, Fiano, Chardonnay, Vermentino and Cabernet Sauvignon.
