2020 San Marzano 60 Sessantanni Old Vines Primitivo di Manduria Magnum

A powerful Primitivo from old vines, originating from the heart of Manduria and released in the impressive magnum format.

Winery

Cantine San Marzano is one of the most renowned wine producers in Southern Italy. The winery was founded in 1962 by a group of local winegrowers in the village of San Marzano di San Giuseppe, located in Puglia. Since then, San Marzano has grown into one of the leading producers of Primitivo. The combination of centuries-old vineyards, modern winemaking techniques, and a deep respect for local traditions has led to international recognition. The Sessantanni is considered the estate's flagship and is one of Italy's most successful Primitivos. You can find more information about this winery in the Winery tab.

Origin and terroir

The grapes come from carefully selected vineyards around San Marzano and Sava, located in the heart of the Primitivo di Manduria appellation. This part of Salento is characterized by warm summers, limited rainfall, and large temperature differences between day and night. These conditions ensure optimal ripening and a high aromatic concentration. The soils consist of loam with a fine structure and a high content of iron oxides, which is responsible for the characteristic red color of the topsoil. Below this lies a calcareous subsoil that provides additional structure and minerality.

Grapes and vineyard management

The Sessantanni is made from 100% Primitivo sourced from approximately sixty-year-old alberello vines. These traditional bush vines naturally yield low harvests and produce grapes of exceptional concentration. The vineyards are planted with approximately 5,000 vines per hectare. Due to the advanced age of the vines and the limited yields, a wine is created with great depth, structure, and aromatic intensity. The harvest typically takes place around mid-September when the grapes have reached their optimal ripeness.

Vinification and aging

After manual harvesting, the grapes are destemmed and crushed. This is followed by cold maceration at approximately 8 degrees Celsius for 24 to 48 hours to optimally extract color and aromas. Next, a temperature-controlled fermentation of about ten days follows with indigenous yeasts at 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. After malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine ages for twelve months in a combination of French and American oak barrels. This aging process provides additional complexity, structure, and refinement.

Color, smell and taste

The wine displays a deep ruby red color with impressive intensity. On the nose, aromas of ripe plums, black cherries, forest fruits, and jam open up, followed by notes of tobacco, cocoa, coffee, and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is full and rich, with a velvety texture and ripe tannins. The concentrated fruit notes are supported by subtle spiciness and a fine balance between power and elegance. The long finish lingers with nuances of chocolate, coffee, and sweet spices.

Style and character

The Sessantanni is a textbook example of high-quality Primitivo di Manduria. The wine combines the natural richness of the grape with a surprising refinement. The old vines provide concentration and depth, while aging in oak adds extra complexity. The result is a powerful yet harmonious wine that appeals to many connoisseurs with its smooth structure and intense taste experience.

Volume

The 2020 vintage benefited from the warm and dry conditions so characteristic of Salento. As a result, the grapes reached excellent ripeness without losing their balance. Moreover, in magnum format, the wine develops more slowly than in a standard bottle, allowing it to retain its freshness longer and build extra complexity during further bottle aging. The alcohol content is 14.5%. The drinking window runs from 2023 to 2035, during which the wine will continue to develop in the coming years.

Food and wine pairings

This powerful Primitivo pairs excellently with grilled beef, lamb, game dishes, and rich stews. Dishes with roasted herbs, hard cheeses, and barbecue dishes also complement the wine's concentrated character beautifully. Thanks to its soft tannins, it is also an excellent accompaniment to dishes with tomato sauces and Mediterranean flavors.

Wine & Food and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.