Li Veli Orion Primitivo Salento, Italy 750ml

The Li Veli Orion Primitivo is a red wine from the Salento IGT denomination in Puglia, southern Italy, produced by Masseria Li Veli — a quality-focused estate founded in 1999 on the Salento peninsula. The wine is crafted from 100% Primitivo grapes grown in clayey and sandy soils with calcareous traces, trained using spurred cordon and alberello systems on vines 10–20 years old. Grapes are harvested at the end of August and vinified in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures between 22°C and 28°C, then aged in French oak barrels.

The wine pours a deep ruby red and offers clear, persistent aromas of red plum, mulberry, pink pepper, and intriguing hints of sandalwood. On the palate it is dry and rigorous, with juicy fruit character that is pleasing without being tiring. It carries 13.5% ABV and is recommended to be opened between 2025 and 2030. Serve at 12–14°C.

The name "Orion" recalls the Greek word oros, meaning "border," referencing the ancient road near Masseria Li Veli that once divided Byzantine and Lombard properties, known as the "Limite dei Greci" (Greek border). The wine pairs beautifully with full-flavored or spicy dishes, orecchiette with sausage, cured meats, grilled sausages, tomato-based pastas, and roasted poultry or pork. Contains sulphites.