Cantele Primitivo Salento IGP 2023 750ml

Product Info

Terroir
Cantele’s Primitivo Salento is rooted in the sun-drenched landscape of southern Puglia, where vineyards stretch across the Salento peninsula between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. This is a region defined by heat, light, and wind—conditions that shape Primitivo into a grape of generous fruit and supple structure. The vineyards sit on predominantly calcareous clay and red, iron-rich soils, which retain enough moisture to sustain vines through the hot growing season while encouraging deep root systems and natural concentration.

Maritime influences play a crucial moderating role. Cooling breezes from both coasts temper daytime heat, slow ripening, and help preserve acidity—an increasingly important factor in modern Salento wines. The 2023 vintage benefited from these balancing forces, producing fruit that reached full phenolic ripeness without tipping into overripeness. The result is a wine that reflects Primitivo’s inherent warmth and richness while maintaining freshness and clarity.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
Cantele approaches Primitivo with a philosophy that favors varietal purity and drinkability over excess. The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness to capture deep fruit character without sacrificing balance. Fermentation takes place under controlled temperatures to preserve aromatic intensity, followed by a gentle extraction regime designed to emphasize softness rather than power.

The wine typically sees a short period of maturation, often partially in stainless steel and partially in neutral or lightly seasoned oak, allowing the fruit to remain front and center. Oak influence is deliberately restrained, contributing subtle spice and texture without masking the grape’s natural profile. The goal is a Primitivo that feels polished and accessible, yet still expressive of place and variety.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2023 Cantele Primitivo shows a deep ruby-purple color with youthful vibrancy. The nose is immediately inviting, offering ripe aromas of black cherry, plum, and blackberry, layered with hints of sweet spice, cocoa powder, and a touch of vanilla. As it opens, subtle notes of dried Mediterranean herbs and a faint earthy undertone add dimension and complexity.

On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied, with a plush, rounded mouthfeel that speaks to Primitivo’s naturally generous character. Ripe dark fruit dominates—black cherry compote, mulberry, and ripe plum—supported by soft tannins and a gentle sweetness of fruit rather than residual sugar. Acidity is present and well-judged, providing lift and preventing the wine from feeling heavy.

Mid-palate flavors of dark chocolate, clove, and licorice emerge, along with a subtle savory note that adds balance to the fruit richness. The finish is smooth and warming, lingering with notes of ripe berries, soft spice, and a touch of cocoa, making the wine immediately pleasurable while still thoughtfully composed.

Food Pairing & Service
This Primitivo is a natural partner for hearty, flavor-driven cuisine. Its ripe fruit and supple structure pair beautifully with grilled meats, especially sausages, lamb, or pork with aromatic herbs. It also complements slow-cooked tomato-based dishes, such as ragù, lasagna, or baked pasta, where acidity and richness meet in harmony. The wine works equally well with wood-fired pizza, roasted vegetables, or aged semi-hard cheeses like pecorino or aged caciocavallo. For a simpler pairing, it shines alongside charcuterie, olives, and rustic bread.

Serve slightly cool, around 60–64°F (15–18°C), to emphasize freshness and balance. Decanting is not essential, but a brief period of air will help the aromatics open fully.