Apollonio Terragnolo Salento Rosso Negroamaro IGP 2018

Apollonio Terragnolo Salento Rosso Negroamaro IGP 2018 is a bold and deeply expressive red wine from the Salento region in Puglia, Southern Italy. Made from 100% Negroamaro, this wine showcases the richness and complexity that this indigenous variety is known for. On the nose, it opens with intense aromas of blackberries, plums, and ripe cherries, accompanied by notes of tobacco, licorice, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it is full-bodied and robust, with velvety tannins and flavors of dark fruits, spices, and a hint of cocoa. The finish is long, with lingering notes of black pepper, leather, and a pleasant earthiness.

Wine Details:

Type: Red Wine
Style: Full-bodied, Bold Red
Grape Varietal: Negroamaro
Taste Like: Like Shiraz, but with more savory, herbal undertones and earthy richness typical of Southern Italian reds.
Alcohol Percentage: 14.5%
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Salento IGP
Region: Puglia
Region Location: Southern Italy
Country: Italy
Terroir: The vineyards are planted on limestone and clay soils, typical of the Salento peninsula, which impart structure and minerality to the wine. The warm Mediterranean climate allows the Negroamaro grapes to fully ripen, developing intense fruit flavors and a balanced acidity.
Aging: Aged for 12-18 months in a combination of large Slavonian oak barrels and French barriques, which adds complexity and softens the wine's tannins, bringing out layers of spice, tobacco, and dark chocolate.
Farming: Sustainable farming practices are used to ensure high-quality grapes and respect for the environment.
Serving Temperature:
16-18°C – Serve slightly below room temperature to highlight the wine’s dark fruit, spice, and earthy richness.

Winery:
Apollonio is a historic winery in Puglia, known for its dedication to producing high-quality wines that celebrate the indigenous varieties of the region. The Terragnolo line represents the winery’s commitment to traditional winemaking, offering wines with depth, structure, and a true sense of place. Apollonio has been producing wines for over 150 years, combining old-world techniques with modern precision.

Dishes this wine pairs with:

Grilled Meats: Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, beef steaks, or pork ribs.
Roast Game: Ideal with roast venison or wild boar, enhancing the wine’s earthy and savory qualities.
Pasta with Meat Sauce: Complements rich pasta dishes like Bolognese or lasagna with its bold tannins and fruit.
Hearty Stews: Works well with slow-cooked beef stew or lamb shank, balancing the wine’s intensity and spice.
Mediterranean Cuisine: Pairs wonderfully with dishes like moussaka, lamb souvlaki, or stuffed peppers.
Cheeses this wine pairs with:

Pecorino (Italy): The sharp, salty flavor of Pecorino balances the wine’s bold fruit and earthy undertones.
Caciocavallo (Italy): The semi-hard texture and savory flavor of Caciocavallo complement the wine’s robust character.
Parmigiano-Reggiano (Italy): The nutty, salty flavors of Parmigiano-Reggiano enhance the wine’s tannins and dark fruit profile.
Taleggio (Italy): The creamy, pungent flavors of Taleggio provide a nice contrast to the wine’s spice and earthiness.
Pyengana Cheddar (Australia): A sharp, crumbly cheddar that pairs well with the wine’s rich fruit and structure.