About the Wine

Primitivo di Manduria is one of southern Italy’s most powerful and historically significant appellations, shaped by heat, ancient soils, and a grape that ripens early yet retains remarkable intensity. Paololeo’s Passo del Cardinale draws on this legacy, crafted from 100% Primitivo grown in Puglia, where tradition and modern precision meet. A defining hallmark of this style is the use of a second harvest, taken around 20 days after the first, traditionally blended back to enhance freshness and balance—an approach that gives this wine both opulence and structure. The 2022 vintage stands as a confident expression of Manduria’s richness, depth, and authority.

Tasting Experience

Colour
Deep ruby red with elegant garnet reflections.

Aroma & Palate
The nose is intense and expressive, offering blackcurrant, blackberry jam, licorice, coffee, and warm baking spices. On the palate, the wine is decisive and powerful, unfolding layers of dark berry compote, cloves, and subtle cedar, supported by velvety tannins and integrated freshness. Despite its richness, the structure remains focused and balanced, carrying concentration without heaviness.

Body
Full-bodied, deep, and opulent.

Finish
Long and persistent, marked by spice, dark fruit, and polished tannins.

Why This Wine Matters

Primitivo is often misunderstood as simply bold or high in alcohol, but in Manduria it achieves something more profound—power paired with control. Passo del Cardinale demonstrates how traditional techniques, such as staggered harvesting, can deliver freshness alongside intensity. For Singapore drinkers who enjoy structured, generous reds, this wine offers a benchmark example of southern Italian craftsmanship, standing confidently alongside far more expensive international styles.

Food Pairings

International

• Grilled ribeye or beef steak

• Roast lamb

• Hearty pasta with rich tomato sauces

• Slow-cooked meats

Singapore / Regional

• Mutton curry

• Beef rendang

• Smoked duck

• Braised beef dishes

Awards & Recognition

James Suckling – 90 points (2022 vintage)
“Rich and spicy with exuberant dark berries, cloves, cedar and hints of tar. Full-bodied, deep and succulent with fine tannins. Intense and opulent, but shows balance and focus. Drink now.”

Widely recognised as a benchmark Primitivo di Manduria for its richness, polish, and balance.

Technical Details