Cantina Sava Zenko Primitivo di Manduria 2024

Cantina Sava “Zenko” Primitivo di Manduria DOC is a bold and expressive red from the Manduria area in Puglia, one of the most renowned zones for Primitivo. Located in the province of Taranto, this sun-drenched region is defined by warm Mediterranean conditions and iron-rich red soils, which contribute to the wine’s depth, power and generous character.

Made predominantly from Primitivo, a naturally early-ripening grape known for its richness and concentration, this style is shaped by both climate and tradition. Careful maceration and controlled fermentation build structure and intensity, often followed by a short maturation to round out the wine and enhance its depth.

This is a classic southern Italian red is full-bodied, smooth and hedonistic - capturing the warmth, richness and easy appeal that define Primitivo di Manduria.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.

Type: Red Wine
Style: Full-bodied, Rich, Smooth
Grape Varietal: Primitivo
Tastes Like: Comparable to a premium Shiraz, but softer, richer and more generous in style
Alcohol Percentage: 14.5%
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Primitivo di Manduria DOC
Region: Puglia, Italy
Terroir: Warm Mediterranean vineyards around Manduria in the province of Taranto, characterised by iron-rich red soils and abundant sunshine
Aging: Controlled fermentation and maceration followed by a short period of maturation to soften the tannins and develop structure
Serving Temperature: 16–18℃ – Decant recommended

Cantina Sava is a Puglian producer based in the province of Taranto, an area at the heart of Primitivo di Manduria. The winery focuses on the traditional grapes of southern Italy, producing generous and approachable wines that capture the warmth of Puglia while retaining balance and regional character.

Zenko is a classic expression of Primitivo di Manduria, one of Puglia’s most recognised red wine styles. The naturally early-ripening Primitivo grape thrives in Manduria’s warm Mediterranean climate and distinctive red soils, producing a full-bodied and polished wine that showcases the richness and easy appeal for which the region has become famous.

Meat: Perfect with slow-cooked beef, roast lamb or grilled steak
Pasta: Excellent with beef ragù, baked pasta or rich tomato-based sauces
BBQ: Pairs beautifully with chargrilled meats, sausages or smoky ribs
Italian Classics: Ideal with polpette, orecchiette with meat ragù or hearty Puglian dishes

Caciocavallo: Firm and savoury, complements the wine's full-bodied structure
Aged Pecorino: Salty and intense, balances the wine's richness
Provolone Piccante: Sharp and robust, stands up beautifully to the wine's generous style
Parmigiano Reggiano: Nutty and savoury, pairs naturally with the wine's depth and structure

Agnello al Forno con Patate (Puglian Roast Lamb with Potatoes)

Ingredients:

• 1kg lamb shoulder, cut into large pieces
• 800g potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
• 3 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 100ml dry white wine
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 50g Pecorino, finely grated
• Salt and cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C.
2. Place the lamb and potatoes in a large roasting dish and add the garlic, rosemary and oregano.
3. Season generously with salt and cracked black pepper, drizzle with the olive oil and toss everything together until well coated.
4. Pour the white wine around the lamb and potatoes, then roast for 45 minutes.
5. Turn the lamb and potatoes, sprinkle over the Pecorino and return to the oven for another 25–30 minutes until the lamb is tender and the potatoes are crisp and golden.
6. Allow the lamb to rest for 10 minutes before serving with the roasted potatoes and pan juices.

A traditional Puglian family dish, Agnello al Forno con Patate is a natural partner for Primitivo di Manduria. The succulent roast lamb and savoury Pecorino match the wine's full body and smooth tannins, while rosemary, garlic and caramelised potatoes complement its generous dark fruit and warm Mediterranean character.