New from Majestic, this 2022 vintage of Amativo, made by Cantele, is a blend of Puglia’s signature red grapes: Negroamaro and Primitivo. The name “Amativo” merges “AMA” from the amaro in Negroamaro and “TIVO” from Primitivo, symbolising this interesting fusion. This wine has earned an impressive 4.3 rating on Vivino.
In the glass, Amativo has a dark, intense colour and a richly layered aroma, evoking notes of raisin, blackcurrant, a festive touch of Christmas pudding and a hint of vanilla.
The tasting experience is actually circular, opening with Primitivo’s signature slightly jammy sweetness, which carries through to the middle part of the taste. As the taste continues, the Negroamaro brings darker notes of coffee and chocolate with medium tannins, before finishing with a spicy raisin edge that loops back to the initial raisin aroma.
To fully appreciate this wine, it is best to decant it for about an hour, allowing its complex flavours to emerge. Alternatively, you might prefer to let it breathe in the bottle which is the more traditional, conservative approach favoured in Italy. However, if you leave it a few days in the bottle, the tannins, coffee and spicy edges soften and there’s more harmony between all the different layers of taste. It was only after this happened that I decided to make this wine one of my picks. Cantele say this wine “will surprise the collector over 8-10 years” which I don’t doubt.
At 15% ABV, Amativo is full bodied and smooth, though I experienced it can be potent if enjoyed on its own! Priced at £22.99 as part of the Mix Six offer at Majestic, it offers richly rewarding experience.
