Learn About Negroamaro: Understanding the Italian Wine Grape

Negroamaro (pronounced NEH-groh-ah-MAH-ro) is a grape variety native to Southern Italy. In modern Italian, the word Negroamaro is derived from word for black, and the Italian word amaro, meaning bitter, referring to both the grape’s signature hue and tannic properties.

Negroamaro grapes are exclusively grown throughout the Puglia region, in areas comprising the “heel” of Italy, notably the Salento peninsula, Tarento, Lecce, Brindisi, and Foggia.

Negroamaro is earthy and dominated by dark fruits—mainly, prunes and ripe plum, blackberry, and sweet cherries—with a faint herbaceous finish reminiscent of dried thyme or sharp, aromatic spices like allspice or clove. It’s fairly dry on the palate, thanks to its relatively high tannins, but ultimately a full-bodied grape.

Negroamaro grapes are most often used in blends alongside other varietals, namely Malvasia Nera, Montepulciano, Sangiovese, and Primitivo (also known as Zinfandel)—of which it is a close relative. 100% varietal wines are also produced by select winemakers.

Those wines made under the Salice Salentino DOC are said to be some of the strongest expressions of the Negroamaro grape, thanks to the area’s hot Mediterranean climate. Some producers use negroamaro to rosé wine (Rosato) and to make sparkling (frizzante) red wines.

Wines made with Negroamaro are a solid pairing choice no matter what you put on the table. In particular, fruity, full-bodied Negroamaro wines are a great counterpoint for big, bold flavors: The smoky char of grilled meat, spicy charcuterie, and rich, caramelized tones in braises and roasts all bring out the fullest expression of its fruit.

Conversely, they can also function as a complementary pairing to fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables, especially during the height of summer. Think jammy heirloom tomatoes with creamy, cool mozzarella and peppery basil, stone fruit salads with funky, aged cheese, or raw zucchini ribbons dressed with garlic, lemon, and grassy olive oil.

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