Fatalone Primitivo Riserva, Gioia del Colle 2022

Fatalone are recognised for producing some of the most authentic expressions of Primitivo and it's terroir in Puglia. Utmost care is taken at every possible turn with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The vineyards surround the winery and are farmed organically and are not irrigated, the winery itself is run on solar power, and there are no addition of sulphites during the vinification process. The wine is aged for 12 months in stainless steel then 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks, and finally 6 months in bottle before release. Ripe red and dark fruits on the nose with balsamic, toasted wood and spice notes. The palate is full with blackberry and mulberry fruits, spices of clove and cacao, and touches of almond on the finish. Ripe tannins, balanced acidity and a dry finish, not a rich powerful fruit bomb like some, are quality hallmarks of this wine. Complex, robust and serious. One of the best, certainly best value, Primitivos we have tried.

Best decanted, try with grilled meats, pasta al ragu, or even dark chocolate.

Azienda Agricole Pasquale Petera: It was Nicola Petrera, an ancestor of the current owner Pasquale Petrera, who first started growing Primitivo grapes in the Gioia del Colle region of Puglia. However, it took several generations before they began bottling their own wine under the Fatalone label in 1987, and they haven't looked back since. Dedicated to organic farming, they only use grapes they grow themselves. In 2003, they opened a new state-of-the-art cellar carved into the rocks, blending ancient tradition with modern techniques and technology. This solar-powered cellar reflects Pasquale's commitment to sustainability. His passion for the quality of this part of Puglia shines through in his excellent wines.