TASTING NOTES FOR Masso Antico Primitivo Appassimento Salento Italy 2023

🍷 Appearance
Very deep, dark red with a near-black core and rich crimson edges. Dense and opulent, showcasing the concentration from the appassimento method.

👃 Aromas
Intense and inviting, with ripe black plum, morello cherry and blackberry leading the nose. Layers of liquorice, cinnamon spice and dried herbs add complexity, with subtle vanilla oak in the background.

👅 Palate
Full-bodied and indulgent, delivering lush black plum, cherry and dark berry fruit. The appassimento influence brings a rich, slightly dried-fruit character, balanced by spice, earth and a touch of oak sweetness.

🍈 Texture & Finish
Plush and velvety with a mouth-filling texture. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins lead into a long, generous finish with lingering dark fruit, spice and warmth.

🍇 Overall Style
A bold, opulent Southern Italian Primitivo—rich, smooth and intensely fruit-driven. The appassimento technique (partially dried grapes) enhances concentration, softness and broad appeal.

🍽️ Food Pairing
Perfect with slow-cooked beef, lamb shanks, rich pasta dishes or barbecue meats. Also excellent with hearty Italian cuisine and aged cheeses where its richness shines.

🥂 BBD Verdict
A powerful, crowd-pleasing red that absolutely delivers on richness and flavour. A standout for Better Buy The Dozen mixed dozens—adds weight, warmth and serious drinkability at a great price point.

Cheers
Peter Turnbull
Better Buy The Dozen 🍷