98 Points from Italian wine guru Luca Maroni.

A newbie in the Boccantino Core range and what a delight it is, a global hit in fact, that we have brought to NZ shores for the first time. This is also made using the Appassimento method, an ancient Italian tradition of naturally drying the bunches with the resultant raisined grapes producing a greater concentration of flavours and a rich, ripe and luscious wine exuding ripe dark blackberry, brighter blueberry as well as hints of licorice and cherry. 

The grapes used for Boccantino Primitivo are grown using the vine training method known as “Alberello”, which has ancient origins and is typical of the Mediterranean area of Italy. It was developed to compensate the lack of water and the very hot climate. The now very rare Alberello system represents a very important part of the cultural and oenological heritage of Apulia.

The rigorous handpicking is followed by a meticulous selection of the destemmed grapes. The grape withering on plants, favored by the sea wind, and a slow maturation in French oak barrels for about 6 months results in an outstanding full-bodied wine with soft tannins that release vanilla notes in the finish.

Boccantino Primitivo, with its ruby red color and its complex bouquet, is characterized by intense and fine aromas that go from mature fruit to spicy notes.