Negroamaro
redWarm climate
The name means 'black bitter' in Italian. Puglia's traditional red grape, deeply colored with earthy, savory character. Makes both powerful reds and excellent rosatos in the Salento peninsula. Bush-trained (alberello) old vines produce the most concentrated wines.
Best within 5-10 years, though top Riservas can age longer.
Climate
Warm
Regions
1 region
Color
red
Typical Structure & Aromas
Structure
Body
RoundedTannins
IntegratedSweetness
Bone dryAcidity
MellowOakCommon
Where Negroamaro grows
Food Pairings
Orecchiette with spicy sausage ragu and aged pecorino
Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and roasted vegetables
Osso buco alla Milanese with saffron risotto
Eggplant parmigiana with fresh basil and buffalo mozzarella
Braised short ribs with red wine reduction and polenta
Aged hard cheeses with honeycomb and toasted walnuts
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Negroamaro taste like?▼
Negroamaro offers rich flavors of black cherry, plum, and fig when young, with earthy and herbaceous notes. As the name suggests, it has a deeply colored, somewhat bitter character with savory undertones that make it quite distinctive.
Where does Negroamaro grow best?▼
Negroamaro thrives in the warm climate of Puglia, particularly in the Salento peninsula of southern Italy. The grape is perfectly adapted to this region's hot, dry conditions where it's been grown traditionally for centuries.
What food pairs with Negroamaro?▼
Negroamaro's earthy, savory character pairs beautifully with grilled meats, aged cheeses, and rustic Italian dishes. The wine's natural acidity and herbal notes also complement tomato-based sauces and Mediterranean cuisine perfectly.
How does Negroamaro age?▼
With age, Negroamaro develops complex aromas of leather, tobacco, and dried fruit while maintaining its earthy character. The wine's natural structure allows it to age gracefully, becoming more refined and nuanced over time.
Is Negroamaro similar to other similar grapes?▼
Negroamaro shares some characteristics with other southern Italian reds like Primitivo, particularly in its full-bodied nature and dark fruit flavors. However, its distinctive bitter, earthy character and savory herbs make it quite unique among Italian varietals.