Negroamaro

Discover the bold elegance of Negroamaro, a robust red from Southern Italy. Rich in black fruits and Mediterranean charm, it tastes like the sun-soaked terroir.

About

The sultry Italian soul

Negroamaro, a distinguished red grape variety, thrives in the sun-drenched vineyards of Southern Italy, primarily in the Puglia region. Its name, "black bitter," hints at the grape's deep colour and bold character. Negroamaro is celebrated for producing wines that reflect the rich terroir and culture of the Mediterranean.

History

The history of Negroamaro traces back to ancient times, where it is believed to have been cultivated for centuries. It has deep roots in Puglia's winemaking traditions, where it has adapted to the region's hot, arid climate. This grape variety is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of vines in Southern Italy.

Overview

Negroamaro embodies the warmth of the Mediterranean. It is known for producing robust and full-bodied wines with a deep colour that mirrors the region's sun-soaked landscapes. The wines crafted from Negroamaro showcase a harmonious blend of fruitiness, earthiness, and rustic charm.

Taste Profile

Negroamaro wines are bold and expressive. They often feature flavours of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and plums, accompanied by hints of licorice, tobacco, and Mediterranean herbs. While present, the wine's characteristic bitterness is balanced by its rich fruitiness.

Colour

The colour of Negroamaro wine is an intense ruby red. It is a visual testament to the grape's bold character and the sun-drenched vineyards where it thrives.

Flavours & Aromas

Negroamaro enchants with an aromatic bouquet that includes notes of black fruits, dried figs, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs. Aromas of blackberry jam, leather, and a hint of thyme fill the glass, setting the stage for the wine's robust and complex palate.

Spice

The spice element in Negroamaro is often subtle but significant. It may reveal nuances of black pepper, clove, and anise.

Taste

Bold, rustic, and earthy.

Wine Structure

Cool climate – Dry, noticeable acidity, mild tannins, 12.5-13.5% abv, light to medium body.

Warm climate – Dry, moderate acidity, gentle tannins, 13.5-14.5% abv, medium to full body.

Wine Styles

Negroamaro is crafted in various styles, from single-varietal expressions that showcase its bold character to blends that incorporate other indigenous grape varieties of Puglia. Some winemakers also experiment with oak aging, adding layers of complexity to the wines.

Food Pairing

Negroamaro's richness and boldness make it an ideal match for hearty Italian cuisine. It pairs wonderfully with pasta with tomato-based sauces, grilled meats, and aged cheeses. Its Mediterranean charm also complements Moroccan and North African cuisine.

Common Regions to Find Negroamaro

Negroamaro is predominantly associated with the Puglia region in Southern Italy, which thrives in the Salento Peninsula and other parts of the province. These areas offer the ideal climate and terroir for this grape variety to flourish.

Summary

Negroamaro is a wine of bold elegance, deeply rooted in the Mediterranean culture of Southern Italy. Its rich history and adaptation to the region's climate have created wines that captivate the senses with bold flavours and deep colour. The intense ruby red hue, with aromas of black fruits and Mediterranean herbs, heralds a palate that combines ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and a hint of spice.