Negroamaro Wine

Origin and History of Negroamaro

Cultivated since antiquity, Negroamaro is deeply rooted in the terroir of southern Italy. Its history dates back several millennia, when the Greeks introduced viticulture to the Italian peninsula. Since then, it has established itself as one of the most representative grape varieties of the region, often vinified alone or blended with other indigenous varieties such as Primitivo, Malvasia Nera, and Sangiovese.

Negroamaro and the Salento Region

Salento, located at the southern tip of Puglia, is the cradle of Negroamaro. This region, bathed by the Ionian and Adriatic seas, benefits from a hot, sunny Mediterranean climate, ideal for optimal grape ripening. The limestone and clay soils of Salento give the wines beautiful minerality and elegant structure.

Like its terroir, Negroamaro is a grape variety that expresses great intensity and uncompromising authenticity. Like Salento, it is both sunny and powerful, marked by an enveloping warmth and vibrant energy. Its wines reflect the soul of southern Italy: generous, deep, and imbued with a strong identity.

The Main Appellations of Negroamaro

Negroamaro is mainly cultivated in Puglia and can be found in several renowned appellations, notably:

• Salice Salentino DOC: Undoubtedly the most famous appellation for Negroamaro-based wines, producing deep reds and aromatic rosés.
• Copertino DOC: Known for its intense and structured red wines.
• Brindisi DOC: Another flagship appellation of Puglia where Negroamaro expresses itself with richness and complexity.

Characteristics of Negroamaro Wines

Wines made from Negroamaro are distinguished by their dark color and complex aromas. Notes of ripe black fruits (cherry, plum, blackberry), spices, tobacco, and sometimes balsamic touches can be found. On the palate, they offer a beautiful tannic structure, balanced acidity, and a slightly bitter finish that gives them a unique character and good aging potential.

Negroamaro is often vinified alone, but it is also used in blends with Primitivo to bring more roundness and complexity. As a rosé, it gives birth to fresh and delicious wines, perfect for accompanying summer days.

Food and Wine Pairings with Negroamaro

Thanks to its aromatic richness and structure, Negroamaro pairs perfectly with flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. Here are some pairing suggestions:

• Grilled meats: Roast lamb with herbs, grilled beef ribs.
• Sauced dishes: Meat stews, pasta with candied tomatoes and black olives.
• Italian cuisine: Charcuterie pizza, lasagna bolognese.
• Aged cheeses: Pecorino, Parmesan, Caciocavallo.

Negroamaro and Other Puglia Grape Varieties

While Negroamaro is the king of Salento, it shares its territory with other emblematic Italian grape varieties. Primitivo, more opulent and fruity, brings additional roundness to blends. The marriage with Malvasia Nera, another iconic grape of Salento, is a classic. By softening the tannins, this grape variety brings a touch of sweetness and additional aromatics to the wines.

Beyond Puglia, Sangiovese, famous throughout Italy, is sometimes associated with Negroamaro to balance its tannic intensity and reinforce its natural acidity.

Why Choose a Negroamaro Wine?

Choosing a Negroamaro wine means diving into the heart of the winemaking traditions of southern Italy. This grape variety offers an intense and authentic sensory experience, ideal for lovers of powerful and expressive Italian wines. Whether red or rosé, it seduces with its assertive character and ability to evoke all the richness of the Salento terroir.

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