The Australian winemaker Lisa Gilbee lived the life of a travelling vintner until she fell in love with the ancient Primitivo vineyards of Salento and the local viticulturist Gaetano Morella. Their joint estate began in 2000, setting a new benchmark for Primitivo by elevating it into the Fine Wine category. Their wines, along with the estate’s ethos, provide a sophisticated counterpoint to the typically simple and heavy-handed wines of the region. Creating such refined wines in Puglia, Italy's ‘bread basket’, with its hot climate and powerful soils, is a remarkable achievement by Lisa and Gaetano. A few years ago, we expanded our Primitivo selection, searching through dozens of samples for everyday fine wines, local legends and something for discerning collectors. It was clear that Morella, especially their old-vine Primitivo, stood out. Now in its fourth vintage, this wine remains a treasure.

Their estate spans 17 hectares and is cultivated using organic and biodynamic principles. Two-thirds of the vines are over 70 years old and are bush-trained. Grapes from these parcels were carefully selected for this bottle. While most Primitivos race toward ripeness at full throttle, this wine takes a more refined approach. It respects its varietal character but avoids being overly sweet, overwhelming or velvety. Instead, it offers structure, vitality and intricate details. Bottled unfiltered.