Sessantanni Primitivo di Manduria DOC - 3.0L double magnum

The Sessantanni – the name simply means "sixty years" – is the answer from Feudi di San Marzano to the question of what happens when Primitivo vines are allowed to get old in the Apulian heat. Deep ruby red, almost black with violet reflections in the glass.

The winery Feudi di San Marzano is one of the most important producers in the Primitivo di Manduria DOC, the stronghold of Primitivo in the province of Taranto. The ancient vines – at least six decades old, some older – deliver few but concentrated grapes. Low yields, deep roots in the red iron oxide soil of Apulia.

In the glass, the 2016 shows aromas of black cherry, ripe blackberries, and plums, underlaid by licorice, tobacco, and a hint of vanilla from the wood aging. On the palate, voluminous and juicy, with velvety-round tannins and long, spicy-warm length. A wine with real pull – not sluggish despite the high body.

The 3.0-liter double magnum matures more slowly than the standard bottle.

• Food: Braised leg of lamb, wild boar salami, aged pecorino
• Temperature: 17–18 °C
• Occasion: Big meal with company – a double magnum calls for the big table