Tenuta del Pajaru Meridionale Tre Tenute Cuvee Privata 2019

The Famiglia De Cerchio’s estates come together to bring forth Meridionale Tre Tenute. A blend of Primitivo, Montepulciano and Nerello Mascalese, the iconic varieties of Abruzzo, Puglia and Sicily, three regions of southern Italy blessed with sun and beauty.

With its deep ruby red color and dense, slow-running tears on the glass, the MERIDIONALE captivates you with its aromas of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and tobacco. On the palate, the MERIDIONALE is intense, warm, moderately tannic, and pleasantly smooth. The aromatic profile continues to delight the senses, enriched by a spicy finish of black pepper.

The MERIDIONALE pairs excellently with aged cheeses, game meats, and red meat

94 Points - Wine Enthusiast

A dexterous nose balances a tart, almost spicy quality drawn from aromas of blackberry, clove and blood orange peel with the fresh but substantial presence of crushed stone and warm earth. On the palate, a blaze of cinnamon and black pepper throws the blackberry, clove and citrus notes into sharp relief, while waves of acid crash against textured, substantial tannins. A very good value.

92 Points - James Suckling

Aromas and flavors of cherry-based confiture with hints of balsamic and cigar box. Full-bodied with the same savory tones dominating the palate. The tannins are fine and are sinking into the wine. Long, tasty finish. Montepulciano, primitivo and nerello mascalese. From organically grown grapes. Vegan. Sustainable. Enticing, if a little wild at present, this should calm down with a year or two in bottle. Try from 2024.