2020 Masca Del Tacco Old Vine Zinfandel Puglia

Italy's star continues to rise in the wine world, and Puglia is one to watch. According to Wine Spectator, the future of this beautiful southern region (also known as the “Tuscany of the South”) looks increasingly bright thanks to the fact that “producers are upgrading and investing in vineyards and winery infrastructure and embracing new philosophies and techniques.”

Puglia is a land filled with traditions, culture, alluring landscapes, pristine nature, amazing food, and most importantly, amazing wine producers, like Masca del Tacco. The estate was founded in 2010 when Felice Mergè bought and restored a century-old building.

Owners and winemakers, Manlio and Felice Mergè perfectly combine traditional winemaking with modern state-of-the-art technology, with a simple yet powerful goal in mind: “honor the tradition, identity, and terroir, delivering outstanding wines made with passion, commitment, and experience.” 

The huge vineyard extends for more than 500 acres and is planted with vines with an average age of 50+ years. Syrah, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Lambrusco, and the kings of the region: Primitivo, Negroamaro, Fiano, and Susumaniello are planted on the estate. The beautiful terroir is enriched by the warmth of the land and the sea influence of the Salentina peninsula.

Masca del Tacco's amazing high quality has paid off and in the past years, it has gained the heart of some of the world's major wine critics, including the world-renowned Italian critic, Luca Maroni, who year after year awards these wines with 95+ scores.

When we think of Zinfandel, our mind immediately goes to the United States. Primitivo is the original Zin, this grape arrived in the first half of the nineteenth century on the east coast of the United States, and in the second half of this century, it was transplanted to California, where today, it is considered a flagship wine. Masca del Tacco crafts this old-vine Zin, carefully selecting only the best grapes of Primitivo from the best breeding areas. The result is this magical wine.

Tasting Notes: 100% Old Vine Zinfandel. Intense and bright ruby red. Complex nose of blackberries and plum jam, red flowers, cocoa powder, mint, and iron. Full-bodied, creamy, and smooth, with a very long eucalyptus and fruity persistence. Enjoy this wine with your next B-B-Q.