Primitivo is a grape often found in the heel of the boot, namely Puglia in Italy. That's where it boasts the best climate, soil structure, and terroir. The Primitivo grape thrives in a warm climate. Because of this, we now also find it in Croatia as Tribidrag and, of course, in America as Zinfandel. Primitivo is therefore a true Italian variety of the grape once used to enhance flavor and color in other red wines. Fortunately, the Italians have learned their lesson and are now making beautiful wines from the Primitivo grape. Most of these are planted in Puglia, and Primitivo has put this wine region on the map.

Over the years, Puglia has developed some very old vines that produce truly beautiful bunches. Italians agree that the older the vines, the better the quality of the Primitivo grapes. And that's certainly true, and the oldest and fullest grapes come from the Primitivo di Manduria region. This is considered the "Grand Cru" of Puglia and produces highly aromatic red wines. These wines have been on the menu since around 1990, producing powerful and velvety-smooth wines beloved by many wine lovers. Due to their location in Puglia, Primitivo enjoys abundant sunshine, as well as cool sea breezes and nights. This results in a long growing season, resulting in full bunches. The beautiful purple bunches are a feast for the eyes and are almost always harvested in the morning, while the bunches are still "sleeping," as this prevents the wine from becoming cloying. Beautiful ripeness and full aromas and flavors await us.

What does a Primitivo taste like?

What kind of flavors does the Primitivo grape offer? Well, it always offers aromas of ripe black fruit like blackberries, cherries, and disturbed plums. With fuller, oak-aged Primitivo wines, you also get nuances of black pepper, bay leaf, cedar, and vanilla. The flavor is beloved worldwide, because who doesn't love a Primitivo from Puglia? They're all velvety smooth, like falling into a warm bed. Full and ripe flavors of stewed black fruit, a touch of spice, and of course, a touch of dark chocolate are noticeable. There are many different wines in various price ranges made from the Primitivo grape. Because yes, the grape lends itself to aging in oak barrels, for example. By resting and aging in the barrels, the Primitivo grape develops an intense character with rich flavors. We could describe it as the "Amarone of Puglia."

What do we eat with a Primitivo wine?

Delicious dishes call for a wonderful wine, and the Primitivo grape pairs well with many dishes. Think of pasta, meat dishes like steak, pork, and lamb. It's also delicious with various cheeses, such as Manchego or other hard cheeses. But it's especially good as an aperitif wine, perfect for relaxing on the couch or for a party; everyone loves a glass of Primitivo.

Primitivo is a wine made for drinking. Enjoy it young, and it tastes best up to five years after the vintage. The powerful wines of Sessantanni, Tator from Poggio del Volpi, and Vigne Vecchie can age much longer because they are fuller and more powerful. We're thinking of a maximum of eight to nine years after the vintage. Enjoy and discover the finest wines made from the Primitivo grape and savor its diversity.