Ognissole Primitivo di Manduria 2002
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2006-
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Enthusiast
Along with the guidance of renowned consulting enologist Riccardo Cotarella, arguably Italy’s foremost winemaker, the Ognissole range taps into the enormous potential of local, ancient varieties in an effort to bring prestige and recognition to these treasures of the south. Until recently, grapes such as Primitivo di Manduria and Verdeca – cultivated from antiquity – faced the risk of obscurity due to the homogenization of the international wine market. In a trend that marks a radical departure from the past, Ognissole seeks to revitalize this ancient area, bringing Apulia to the forefront among world-class wine regions.
Italian Red Wine
While picturesque hillsides, endless coastlines and a favorable climate serve to unify the grape-growing culture of this country. The apparent never-ending world of indigenous grape varieties gives Italy an unexampled charm and allure for its red wines. From the steep inclines of the Alps to the sprawling, warm, coastal plains of the south, red grape varieties thrive throughout.
The kings of Italy, wines like Barolo and Barbaresco (made of Nebbiolo), and Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino (made of Sangiovese), as well as Amarone (mostly Corvina), play center stage for the most lauded, collected and cellar-worthy reds. Less popular but entirely deserving of as much praise are the wines made from Aglianico, Sagrantino and Nerello Mascalese.
For those accustomed to drinking New World reds, the south is the place to start. Grapes like Negroamaro or Primitvo from Puglia and Nero d’Avola from Sicily make soft, ammicable, full-bodied, fruit-dominant wines. Curious palates should be on the lookout for Cannonau (Grenache), Lagrein, Teroldego, Ruché, Freisa, Cesanese, Schiopettino, Rossese and Gaglioppo to name a few.