Nero (2022): A Southern Italian Classic, Grown in North Carolina
The newest vintage of one of Piccione Vineyard's Italian-inspired red is here. Nero (2022) is the latest release of our estate-grown wine made from Nero Amaro, a grape varietal with deep roots in Southern Italy commonly referred to simply as Nero.
While Nero has been part of our lineup for years, the 2022 vintage gives us another opportunity to showcase this distinctive Italian grape and the unique character it develops here in the North Carolina mountains.
From Puglia to North Carolina
Nero is grown primarily in Puglia, the sun-soaked region in the heel of Italy's boot. The grape is known for producing deeply colored, flavorful red wines with dark fruit, spice, and plenty of structure.
Our connection to Nero goes back to 2010, when we planted the varietal here at Piccione Vineyards. To the best of our knowledge, we were the first vineyard on the East Coast to plant Nero.
More than a decade later, those vines have matured into an important part of our vineyard and our commitment to growing Italian grape varieties in North Carolina.
What's in the Glass?
The 2022 Nero offers a balance of rich fruit, spice, structure, and oak-driven complexity.
You'll find flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and spice, with Hungarian oak aging adding another layer of depth and complexity. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with medium acidity and medium to firm tannins.
On the palate, Nero has a round mid-palate that balances its structure, while subtle cedar notes emerge on the lingering finish. The result is a well-balanced red with enough structure to complement food while remaining enjoyable on its own.
What to Pair with Nero
With its dark fruit, spice, and firm tannins, Nero is particularly well suited to flavorful, hearty foods.
Try it with:
Pizza – especially pizzas with savory meats or rich cheeses
Barbecue – the wine's fruit and spice pair beautifully with smoky flavors
Pulled pork – a natural match for the wine's structure and rich fruit character
Whether you're gathering around the dinner table or enjoying a casual glass after a long day, Nero is an easy wine to reach for when you're craving something with a little more depth.
Drink Now or Save for Later
The 2022 Nero is ready to enjoy now, but its structure also gives it the potential to develop further with time in the cellar.
Open a bottle now to experience its dark fruit, spice, and cedar notes, or set a few bottles aside and see how the wine evolves as it ages.
Over a Decade in the Making
Nero may have its roots in Puglia, but this wine has become part of the Piccione Vineyards story. From planting our first Nero vines in 2010 to releasing the 2022 vintage today, we've enjoyed watching this Italian varietal find its place in the North Carolina mountains.
Come visit Piccione Vineyards and taste the newest vintage of Nero for yourself. Available to wine club now, and to all beginning Saturday, September 5th.
