Uno “1” Primitivo Di Manduria D.O.C.

Story: Masseria La Volpe operates on the Salentine Peninsula's high plateau near Manduria, where Primitivo has thrived since the 18th century. This cuvée, labeled simply "1," represents the producer's commitment to minimal intervention—a deliberate rejection of the over-extracted, high-alcohol Primitivos that dominated the region's export market in the 1990s and 2000s.

Site & Terroir: Vines grow on sandy-limestone soils at 80–120 meters elevation, with morning maritime influence from the Ionian Sea tempering afternoon heat. The shallow, mineral-rich substrate forces deep root penetration, concentrating phenolic ripeness while preserving acidity.

Technique: Wild yeast fermentation in open concrete vats, no temperature control, 30-day skin contact on the skins. Aged 12 months in large Slavonian oak (5,000–10,000 L casks), unfined and unfiltered. Bottled with minimal added sulfur (under 50 mg/L total)—a risky choice that demands careful cellaring but rewards with textural transparency.

Special Feature: The unfiltered presentation reveals suspended tannins and occasional sediment; decanting 30 minutes before service clarifies the wine's mid-palate structure. Alcohol sits at 14.2% ABV, restrained for the variety and vintage.

Drinking Window: 2022–2028. Peak expression at 3–4 years from vintage.