Cantine San Marzano was founded in 1962 as a winemaking cooperative by 19 local winemakers and grape growers. Set in the heart of the Primitivo di Manduria region, the winery enjoys a perfect location on the “heel” of Italy close to both the Ionian and Adriatic seas. Their vineyards thus enjoy plenty of Mediterranean sunshine moderated by cooling sea breezes which helps to preserve freshness and aromatics in the grapes.

This precious limited edition Primitivo is made from 60 to 100 year old vines which are planted on the estate’s 40 hectare vineyard known as the Valle del Sessantanni or “Sixty-Year-Old Valley”. The vineyard had actually been forgotten and abandoned prior to its rediscovery and rehabilitation by San Marzano. These very old vines produce just tiny amounts of very concentrated fruit and are harvested by hand to make sure the fruit arrives at the winery in perfect condition. Another unusual feature here are the red soils which are rich in iron and provide ideal growing conditions for the Primitivo variety.

In the winery the fruit is fermented in temperature-controlled tanks and then matured in oak barrels for at least 12 months to add hints of spice and extra complexity. A great partner for hearty stews, steaks and barbecued meats, this is a fantastic wine to enjoy now or to keep in the cellar for a few more years as it continues to develop.