Schola Sarmenti Diciotto 2021

Schola Sarmenti Diciotto 2021 is a powerful, opulent red from Puglia in Southern Italy, crafted in a rich, concentrated style that showcases the full intensity of the region’s sun‑ripened fruit. This is a wine made for those who enjoy depth, texture and generous flavour, yet still want balance and precision in the glass. The name “Diciotto” (Italian for eighteen) is a nod to the remarkable concentration and maturity of the old bush vines that give this Primitivo its signature character.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, Diciotto 2021 shows a deep, almost opaque ruby colour with garnet reflections at the rim, signaling both youth and richness. The nose is intensely aromatic, with layers of ripe black cherry, plum jam and blackberry compote, supported by notes of sweet spice, vanilla, cocoa, liquorice and a touch of dried fig and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, the wine is full‑bodied, velvety and richly textured, with plush dark fruit at the core—think black cherry, black plum and mulberry—wrapped in warm spice, chocolate and a subtle balsamic edge. The tannins are ripe and smooth yet present, giving structure to the generous fruit, while the well‑judged acidity keeps the wine from feeling heavy. The finish is long, persistent and slightly liqueur‑like, with echoes of dried fruit and sweet spice. Enjoyable now for its exuberant, decadent fruit, it has the concentration and structure to evolve gracefully over the next 6–10 years, developing more savoury, tertiary notes with time in bottle.

Production
Schola Sarmenti sources Diciotto from low‑yielding, old‑vine Primitivo bush vines rooted in Puglia’s sun‑drenched, limestone‑rich soils not far from the Ionian Sea. This combination of warm Mediterranean climate, cooling sea breezes and mineral terroir allows the grapes to reach great ripeness while retaining a core of freshness. Grapes are typically harvested by hand at optimal maturity, with careful selection in the vineyard to ensure only the healthiest, most concentrated berries make it into the winery. Fermentation takes place in temperature‑controlled conditions to preserve aromatics and fruit purity, followed by aging in oak (often a mix of barriques and larger barrels) to add complexity, polish the tannins and integrate the wine’s natural power without overwhelming its varietal character.

Food & Serving
This is a natural partner for rich, hearty dishes such as slow‑braised beef, osso buco, lamb shank, venison stews or barbecued short ribs, as well as intensely flavoured pasta dishes with ragù, lasagne al forno and aged hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino. It also works beautifully with gamey sausages, grilled meats and dishes featuring sun‑dried tomatoes or roasted root vegetables. For optimal enjoyment, serve Diciotto 2021 at 16–18°C. Decanting for 1–2 hours before serving helps the wine open up, softening the tannins and allowing its layered aromas and flavours to fully express themselves.

Producer
Schola Sarmenti is a relatively young but highly regarded winery based in the heart of Puglia, dedicated to reviving and showcasing the region’s historic native varieties, particularly Primitivo and Negroamaro. Working extensively with old bush vines and traditional viticultural methods, the estate has become known for producing deeply expressive, authentic wines that capture the warmth and character of Salento’s coastal landscapes. By combining respectful, often manual work in the vineyards with thoughtful, modern winemaking, Schola Sarmenti has helped elevate Puglia’s reputation on the international stage, earning attention from wine lovers who seek both power and elegance in Southern Italian reds.

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