In the past, when I thought of San Marzano, I thought of ripe, juicy, flavor-packed tomatoes. Now, San Marzano Wines (http://www.sanmarzanowines.com/en) also come to mind.

San Marzano Wines is a prominent Puglian producer, creating wines with true to their regional characteristics. Situated in the Primitivo di Manduria DOP, San Marzano is a wine cooperative (cantine) that was established in 1962, when 19 vine growers from San Marzano di San Giuseppe— whose families had farmed the land for generations—joined forces to maximize their efforts. Today, San Marzano continues a philosophy of balancing longstanding traditions with modern techniques and has over 1,200 vine growers across more than 3,500 acres of vineyards.

San Marzano Wines are focused on highlighting the region’s traditional varieties, primarily Primitivo, Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera (plus some others). The cantine weaves tradition, passion and modern techniques to produce a range that highlights the character of each grape and the terroir.

2015 Anniversario 62 Primitivo di Manduria

The Anniversario 62 Primitivo di Manduria is 100% Primitivo, and its name celebrates the year that San Marzano was launched. This is a big boy and while nice now with some decanting, it shows the aging potential of this wine.

Looks: Intense ruby in the glass

Smell: Stone fruit, jammy cherries with notes of mocha

Taste: Black cherry jam, with notes of licorice and coffee

Texture and Finish: Full-bodied, rich tannins, dry long finish

Pairings: Beef/lamb/game (think Pappardelle with pork ragu)

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): 100% Primitivo

Region: Puglia, Italy

Price: $33.99

2015 Il Pumo Negroamaro Salento IGP

Il Pumo Negroamaro Salento IGP is named after pumo clay pottery very popular in the region and the clay soils the wines in the Salento peninsula are grown in. This budget-friendly wine is great during the week, with takeout pizza or on its own.

Looks: Purple/red in the glass

Smell: Bright red berries with floral notes

Taste: Ripe red berries/fruit with some plum and a little spice on the finish

Texture and Finish: Medium-bodied, velvety texture, great acidity, medium finish

Pairings: Grilled red meat, pizza, antipasto, cheese plate

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): 100% Negroamaro

Region: Puglia, Italy

Price: $8.99

Cheers,

Veronique

These wines were provided to me for sampling and I am adding them to my repertoire as they’re truly enjoyable.