Terroir: The Castello Monaci Artas Primitivo is sourced from vineyards surrounding the ancient Castello Monaci estate. The dry, limestone-based soils combine with alberello-trained vines and the hot arid climate to produce remarkably low yields and extraordinarily rich wines. Vinification: Harvest is done at night to avoid exposing the picked grapes to the intense heat of the southern sun. The grapes are macerated at cold temperature for 15+ days with frequent pumping over of the must to encourage rich extraction of flavor and color. Following fermentation the wine is aged for 6 months in French oak and other 6 months in casks followed by an additional 6 months in bottle prior to release. 9,500 bottles produced. Bright ruby red in color with a complex and ethereal bouquet of sun-drenched berry fruit, black pepper spice and smoky oak. It has soft enveloping flavors and elegant tannins with a pleasing aftertaste of red fruits. A perfect match for roasted red meats, game, goat cheeses or medium mature cheese.