2022 Antonio Papa” Opimiamo”

2022 Antonio Papa “Opimiano” Campania IGT – Professional Tasting Notes

Producer & Appellation: Società Agricola Antonio Papa – Campania IGT, Italy (Campania’s broad Indicazione Geografica Tipica category)

Blend: Predominantly Primitivo, Barbera and Piedirosso (approx. proportions in similar vintages: ~60% Primitivo, ~45% Barbera, ~10% Piedirosso)

Vinification & Aging: Manual harvest with gentle destemming and fermentation in stainless steel at controlled temperature; aged in steel before bottling (~10 months typical).

Alcohol: Moderate to elevated (Campania reds often ~13.5–14+% vol).

Appearance: Deep intense ruby red in the glass with youthful saturation and a bright rim, indicating good varietal ripeness and healthy phenolic extraction.

Nose: Inviting and aromatic, led by ripe red fruit (wild cherry, cranberry and brambly raspberry) entwined with fragrant spice elements (clove, black pepper) and subtle balsamic notes. Secondary hints include dried herbs, gentle earth and a touch of mocha or cocoa-vanilla nuance from lees contact and varietal interplay. The overall bouquet is expressive yet balanced, bridging fruit intensity with savory complexity.

Palate: Medium-full bodied with rounded tannins and poised acidity that frame the fruit. The core shows ripe red fruit flavors complemented by gentle spice and a hint of herbaceous depth. Tannins are ripe and integrated, offering structure without undue astringency. There’s a harmonious balance between richness and freshness, making this wine approachable early but with enough backbone to accompany food. The finish is warm, resonant and persistent, with lingering fruit and spice echoes and a soft savory persistence.

Structure: Moderate acidity, supple but present tannins, generous fruit weight and a savory finish characterize this style, indicative of Campania’s warm growing conditions and varietal blend.

Food Pairing: Ideal with hearty Italian fare such as grilled red meats, rich pasta sauces, roasted game and aged cheeses; it can also pair nicely with pizza and rustic stews.PM

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