Vineco

As one of the first varietals to be harvested in Italy, Primitivo loosely translates to ‘early ripening’. It was given this name because every growth stage for the Primitivo grape happens early, starting from flowering through to colour change. This full-bodied wine brings aromas of dark raspberry, black currant, and preserved cherry with hints of coffee and baking spice. It’s earthy, bold, and luscious character are complemented by round tannins and a smooth finish.

The Region

The Puglia region which is known for its Primitivo wines. Located at the south-eastern tip of Italy or at the ‘heel of boot’, this sunny dry region is surrounded by water on all three sides. Cool breezes off the Mediterranean help regulate the temperatures in the vineyards offering ideal growing conditions for this grape. The region also produces half of Italy’s olive oil because of the warm and dry climate.

The Food

Sausage with fennel and fire-roasted tomatoes and peppers
Eggplant parmesan
Smoked gouda

Primitovo – Puglia, Italy

Alc./ vol: 13% | Body: Full | Sweetness: Dry

Italian Grillo Pinot Grigio

The Wine
A unique blend of Grillo and Pinot Grigio, this fruit-driven wine is a playful balance between freshness and body.  Grillo pronounced GREE-lo, originated in Sicily and is a more robust alternative to Pinot Grigio.  It brings more body to this blend along with floral notes and hints of grapefruit. The Pinot Grigio keeps this wine crisp, offering bright acidity along with notes of cantaloupe and sweet pear on the palate.

The Region
Sicily is the southernmost region in Italy and the largest island on the Mediterranean Sea. It is consistently blessed with bright sunshine, warm temperatures, moderate rainfall, and coastal breezes. This classic Mediterranean climate is described by Sicilian wine producers as a magical place to make wine thanks to the unique geography, climate, and cultural influence.

The Food

  • Grilled Calamari with preserved lemon and fresh herbs
  • Tomato and watermelon salad
  • Fresh goat cheese

Grillo Pinot Grigio – Sicily, Italy

Alc./ vol: 12.5% | Body: Medium | Sweetness: Dry

The Wine
Experience Spain with this juicy blend of Tempranillo and Bobal, two of the most widely planted varieties in Spain. Ripe fruits of dark cherry, strawberry, and blackberry are complemented by notes of plum and fig preserve. Toasted oak brings hints of vanilla bean and baking spice. This medium-bodied wine delivers freshness and balance with well-structured tannins and a long lingering finish.

The Region
Manchuela is a large wine-growing region in central Spain inland from Valencia and located in the valleys between two rivers, the Jucar and Cabriel.  These valleys and the influences of the Mediterranean Sea make the climate relatively mild.  The moist winds coming off the coast help to regulate the temperatures in the vineyards to ensure optimal growing conditions. Red grape varietals dominate the region with Bobal representing approximately 70% of the vines grown in the region.

The Food

  • Paella with chorizo
  • Grilled vegetable lasagna
  • Manchego cheese

Tempranillo Bobal – Manchuela, Spain

Alc./ vol: 13% | Body: Medium | Sweetness: Dry

The Wine
A classic Australian blend with a twist. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz are married with Montepulciano to create a complex and full-bodied wine. Dark fruits of blackberry and currant follow with notes of plum and preserved cherry. Firm but velvety tannins are met with a rich mouthfeel, with hints of black pepper, sweet red fruits, and baking spice.  This is a playful blend bringing three classic varietals together, creating a wine with alluring texture and bold style.

The Region
The Murray Darling region straddles the Murray River and covers a large area between northwest Victoria and western New South Wales.  A hot and dry climate with extended hours of sunshine, low humidity, and cool nights allows for the ideal ripening conditions.  Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz thrive in Australian soil producing some of the most iconic wines in the southern hemisphere. The region is now becoming known for alternative Italian varieties like Montepulciano because winemakers have realized those varietals perform extremely well in the warm climate.

The Food

  • Grilled striploin with a mushroom peppercorn sauce
  • Garlic sauteed spinach
  • Aged sharp cheddar

Cabernet Shiraz Montepulciano – Murray Darling, Australia

Alc./ vol: 14% | Body: Full | Sweetness: Dry