Primitivo
    Red Grape

    Primitivo

    pree-mee-TEE-voh/ˌpriːmɪˈtiːvoʊ/

    Italy's version of Zinfandel, Primitivo produces rich, jammy wines in the sun-drenched heel of Italy. Expect ripe fruit, sweet spices, and high alcohol.

    Serving Temp

    16-18°C (60-65°F)

    Aging Potential

    3-10 years

    Glass Type

    Standard red wine glass

    Color

    Deep ruby to purple

    Flavor Profile

    FlavorProfile
    Primary
    Secondary
    Tertiary

    Signature Aromas

    Jammy Fruit
    Sweet Spice
    Dried Fruit
    Smoke
    Herbs

    Origin

    Puglia

    Italy

    Characteristics

    Body4/5
    LightFull
    Acidity3/5
    LowHigh
    Tannins3/5
    SoftFirm
    Sweetness2/5
    DrySweet

    Top Wine Regions

    • ManduriaItaly
    • Gioia del ColleItaly
    • PugliaItaly

    Food Pairings

    Pasta with Meat Sauce
    Grilled Lamb
    Aged Cheeses
    Pizza
    Braised Meats

    History & Origins

    DNA testing confirmed Primitivo is identical to California's Zinfandel and Croatia's Crljenak Kaštelanski. It ripens early, hence its name.

    Famous Wines

    Gianfranco Fino Es Primitivo

    Gianfranco Fino

    Manduria

    Did You Know?

    • Genetically identical to Zinfandel
    • Name means 'early one' in Italian
    • Originally from Croatia

    Similar Varietals

    Zinfandel
    Negroamaro
    Nero d'Avola

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    Discover the perfect food pairings for Primitivo