Get to know: San Marzano 62 Anniversario Primitivo di Manduria Riserva 2019
A richly textured and expressive Italian red wine from the sun-baked vineyards of Primitivo di Manduria in Salento, Puglia.
Tasting Note
San Marzano 62 Anniversario Primitivo di Manduria Riserva 2019 is a powerful, full-bodied red with generous, ripe fruit and a velvety, warming character. Deep ruby in colour, it opens with intense aromas of prune, cherry jam, sweet spice, and a touch of tobacco – classic notes for well-made Primitivo. On the palate, it’s plush and concentrated with layers of dark fruit, cocoa, coffee, and vanilla, supported by fine, rounded tannins. The finish is long, smooth, and gently spicy. A superbly crafted Primitivo di Manduria that balances richness with real finesse.
Top food pairings:
- Slow-braised beef or short ribs
- Hearty tomato-based pasta with herbs
- Roast game dishes
Kate Says
"This is one of those big, generous Primitivos you want to linger over. Think crackling fire, cosy evening, and a glass that smells like Christmas cake and dark chocolate – absolutely glorious."
Producer Info
San Marzano is one of Puglia’s most celebrated producers, known for championing old-vine Primitivo in the heart of Manduria. Their vineyards sit in a warm Mediterranean climate with cool night-time breezes, helping the grapes build intense flavour while holding onto freshness. The iron-rich red soils and limestone subsoil add depth and character, while their focus on low-yield, old bush vines results in extraordinary concentration and purity.
How it’s made:
- Varieties: 100% Primitivo
- Hand-harvested in mid-September at advanced ripeness
- Cold soak maceration at 8°C for 24–48 hours for aroma and colour extraction
- Thermo-controlled fermentation with native yeasts for around 10 days
- Malolactic fermentation, then 18 months in French and American oak barrels
Good to know:
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Region: Primitivo di Manduria DOP, Salento, Puglia
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Style: Red
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Closure: Cork
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Vegan: No
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ABV: 14.5%
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Vintage: 2019
Why we love it:
This outstanding Italian red wine shows Primitivo at its most luxurious – rich, smooth, and packed with dark fruit and spice. It’s a real showstopper for hearty meals, special occasions, or those evenings when only a deeply warming glass will do.