Felline Pietraluna Negramaro, 2018 (Explorer Club Feb)

Winery Introduction
Gregory Perucci, the visionary founder of Felline and pioneer of Puglia's wine renaissance, crafts this single-varietal Negroamaro as a testament to the region's rich viticultural heritage. Through his research organization Accademia dei Racemi, Perucci has dedicated himself to elevating Puglia's native grapes, transforming the region's reputation from bulk wine producer to creator of distinguished, terroir-driven wines.

Tasting Profile
This inky, blue-black wine captivates with an expressive bouquet of ripe red berries and fresh fruits. The palate unfolds with layers of juicy dark fruit complemented by subtle notes of cinnamon, licorice, and Mediterranean herbs. Smooth and exquisitely balanced, it showcases both the distinctive character of Negroamaro and the unique Puglian terroir.

Winemaking Notes
Hand-harvested grapes are carefully destemmed and crushed before fermentation. Temperature-controlled fermentation and maceration at 25-27°C in stainless steel tanks preserves the wine's vibrant fruit character and varietal purity.

Vineyard Notes
Grown in Puglia's distinctive loose, stony soils, these Negroamaro vines benefit from the region's Mediterranean climate and Perucci's meticulous viticultural practices.

Technical Details
- Region: Puglia, Italy
- Classification: Salento IGP
- Varietal: 100% Negroamaro
- Vintage: 2018
- Alcohol: 13.50% ABV
- Acidity: 5.60 g/L
- pH: 3.60
- Closure: Cork

Cellaring
The wine's excellent balance and structure suggest good aging potential, though it's drinking beautifully now.

Producer Profile
Felline, under Gregory Perucci's leadership, has become a beacon of innovation in Puglia. Through the Accademia dei Racemi, the estate continues its groundbreaking research on native varieties, particularly focusing on Malvasia Nera, Verdeca, and Vermentino. Their new event space, "Spacio Primitivo" in Manduri, serves as a cultural hub for wine education and appreciation.