Negroamaro

Negroamaro is a native red wine grape variety primarily found in the southern Italian region of Puglia. Its name translates to “black bitter,” reflecting its deep color and characteristic tannins. Negroamaro has a long history in Puglia, where it thrives in the Mediterranean climate, producing wines known for their bold flavors and structure.

What You Can Expect to Taste and Smell?

Negroamaro wines typically exhibit rich dark fruit flavors such as plum, blackberry, and black cherry. They often have aromas of spice, tobacco, and earthiness, with occasional floral notes. The wines are characterized by their full body, firm tannins, and balanced acidity, making them suitable for aging.

Comparison of Cool vs Warm Climates

In cooler climates, Negroamaro retains more acidity, which enhances its fruitiness and adds freshness to the wine. Warmer climates, such as those in Puglia, allow the grapes to fully ripen, resulting in wines with deeper color, riper fruit flavors, and softer tannins.

Key Regions and Name Some Appellations or Producers of Note

Key regions for Negroamaro include:

• Puglia, Italy: Particularly in Salento, and appellations like Salice Salentino and Copertino.
• California, USA: Growing interest in regions like Paso Robles and Lodi.
• Australia: Increasing plantings in regions such as McLaren Vale and Riverland.

Notable producers:

• Leone de Castris (Salice Salentino, Italy)
• Tormaresca (Puglia, Italy)
• Primitivo Quiles (Spain, known for their Monastrell wines)

Age-worthiness

Negroamaro wines have good aging potential. When aged under optimal conditions, they can evolve beautifully over 5-10 years, developing more complexity while maintaining their fruit-forward character.

Meet the author

Damien Saunders
WSET3 award - Has been on a journey to learn more about wine, viticulture since I started travelling. Every country has something to drink.
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