Negroamaro

Where is Negroamaro from?

Negroamaro, a grape variety closely associated with Italy’s Puglia region, boasts a history that traces back to ancient times.. The name Negroamaro,which translates to ’black and bitter’ in Italian, reflects the grape’s deep color and robust character.

It is believed that Negroamaro grape made its way to Puglia during the period of Greek colonization, likely through what is now modern-day Albania. While a small amount of Negroamaro grape is also grown in California and Australia it is mostly associated with the "heel" of Italy's Booth.

Interesting story about Negroamaro

Negroamaro words origin is a dispute: some propose a straightforward derivation from “Negro”(black) and “amaro”(bitter), while others argue for a Greek origin, “mavro”(black), highlighting Puglia’s historical ties to Greece.   

Negroamaro should be distinguished from Negramoll, another red wine grape variety, native to Iberian Peninsula and is particularly prominent on the island of Madeira. These two grape varieties are distinct in terms of their origins, characteristics and the regions where they flourish.

Negroamaro also goes by synonyms, such as Negro Amaro, Nigramaro, Negramaro, Amaro Nero, and Nicra Amaro.

Negroamaro grape characteristics

Negroamaro grape is a drought resistant variety which flourished in the parched Mediterranean climate of Italy’s Puglia peninsula, where the rainfall is limited. Negroamaro Grape thrives particularly well in clay and limestone soils, it showcases its adaptability in this arid environment. 

One key characteristic of Negroamaro grape is its deep, dark color, which imparts a rich, intense hue to the wines. It’s a thick-skinned grape which thrives in the warm Mediterranean climate of Puglia, resulting in wines with high alcohol content and moderate to high tannins. In terms of flavor, Negroamaro grapes offer a captivating complexity. They present a medley of dark fruit notes, such as blackberry and plum, harmoniously intertwined with spicy accents of black pepper and tobacco. Moreover, subtle hints of dried herbs and earthy undertones contribute further depth to this exceptional grape.

Negroamaro Wines

Negroamaro grape appeal lies in its deep color and medium to full tannins, attributes that are well-suited for crafting both red and rosé wines. This grape variety can be showcased either as a 100% varietal wine or blend, often with Malvasia Nera, Montepulciano, Sangiovese, and Primitivo.

What makes Negroamaro wine truly captivating is its versatility. Whether savored in its youthful form, boasting vibrant fruit-forward notes, or patiently aged to unlock complexity and velvety texture, these wines cater to a wide spectrum of tastes.

In essence, negroamaro wines encapsulate the rich legacy and the sun-drenched Mediterranean ambiance of Puglia, delivering wines of depth, character and an enduring connection to their Italian roots.

The Best Negroamaro are found in Salice Salentino DOC. The other expression can be found in Brindi , Copertino, Leverano, Squinzano and Terra d'Otranto.

Where to find the best Negroamaro Wines

Puglia

Here are some wineries in Puglia where you can taste the best Negroamaro :

• Cantina Masseria Torricella
• Torleanzi Winery
• Cantina Petrelli

Mendocino

Here are some wineries in Mendocino where you can taste the best Negroamaro :

• Barra of Mendocino
• Graziano Family Of Wines
• Meyer Family Cellars

Riverland

Here are some wineries in Riverland where you can taste the best Negroamaro:

• Salena Estate Wines
• 919 Wines