About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The wine draws on three selected vineyards in Contrada Monte La Conca, straddling the territories of San Marzano and Francavilla Fontana in Salento. Each vineyard is identified by an “F” marked on wood. The old vines are trained as alberello at 4,500 vines per hectare. The fine-textured loam is rich in iron oxides, giving the surface its characteristic red hue, over limestone with occasional exposed rock. The warm, dry climate has pronounced day-to-night temperature variation.
Grapes
Negroamaro.
Vinification
Slightly overripe grapes are harvested by hand in the final week of September, destemmed and crushed. Cold pre-fermentation maceration at 8°C lasts approximately 24–48 hours. Temperature-controlled maceration and alcoholic fermentation then continue for about 10 days with indigenous yeasts at 24–26°C, followed by drawing off with gentle presses.
Ageing
Malolactic fermentation takes place in stainless steel. The wine then matures for 12 months in French and Caucasian oak barriques.
Technical data
Alcohol: 14.5% vol. Alongside the standard bottle, special formats include 1.5 L and 3 L.
Tasting profile
A very deep purple-red. The broad, complex bouquet brings together spice, forest berries and cherry preserve. The wine is full-bodied, supple and harmonious, with fine tannins and a pleasantly persistent finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18°C with substantial first courses, red meat, game or aged cheeses. Best enjoyed within 10 years of harvest.
Label / history
The letter “F” refers to Feudi di San Marzano, a name integral to the estate’s history, and to the identifying marks placed on the wood in the three source vineyards. This expression of Negroamaro is conceived for a velvety, elegant and age-worthy style.
