Terrecarische 1939 Primitivo 2024

The "karstic lands" in the name are those of Castellana Grotte, the limestone plateau of the Murgia Barese — a different Puglia from the one most people picture, with hills and rock in place of plains: ravines, sinkholes, and caves inhabited since the Paleolithic. The 1939 comes from a document in which Nicola Insalata's great-grandparents declared a harvest to the local mayor; Nicola, fourth generation, took over in 2014 and built a new cellar. Vinified and aged in steel, giving intense ruby with garnet highlights, ripe juicy red fruit, and a touch of spice — full-bodied and harmonious. Blackberry and plum jam, cocoa and soft vanilla, with soft tannins and a long close.

Food pairing: Grilled meats, tomato-based pasta, rich stews, and aged cheeses — plus lamb, sausage, and barbecue.