Schola Sarmenti Cubardi Primitivo is a dense, full-bodied red from Salento in southern Puglia, made from 100% Primitivo sourced from old, low-yielding vines. It delivers a generous, richly fruited style with plenty of southern warmth, wrapped in velvety tannins that make it remarkably smooth and approachable.
In the glass, Cubardi shows a deep, dark ruby colour. The nose is intense and layered, offering aromas of ripe plums, black cherries, blackberries, dried fruit, sweet spices, a touch of liquorice, cocoa and a hint of vanilla. On the palate it is full and mouth-filling, with juicy dark fruit, a gentle sweetness to the fruit, warm alcohol and very soft, polished tannins. The finish is long, warming and subtly spicy, with echoes of chocolate, dried fruits and dark berries.
Cubardi Primitivo is an excellent companion to rich meat dishes, grilled beef and lamb, slow-cooked stews, game, hearty pasta with meat sauces, spicy sausages and mature cheeses. It also works beautifully as a contemplative “after dinner” red, served in a large glass.
Schola Sarmenti is based in Nardò in the heart of Salento and is dedicated to native grape varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro and Susumaniello. Many of their vineyards are planted with old bush-trained vines, and all harvesting is done by hand. The philosophy is to bottle wines that speak clearly of Salento – generous, fruit-driven and warm in style, yet with enough balance to stay refined. Cubardi Primitivo stands out as one of the estate’s most concentrated and expressive interpretations of Puglia.
