Overview

 

The Primitivo grape is dark-skinned and typically produces very tannic wines that are high in alcohol content. In addition, wines made with this grape tend to have a deep color and bold flavors. In Manduria, in the province of Taranto, it often reaches an ABV of 18% but is reduced to 14% for table wines. Due to its bitterness and high tannin levels, Primitivo needs to age for a few years either in the bottle or a barrel. The origin of this grape is uncertain and largely debated. However, today it makes its home in southern Italy, specifically in Puglia. There’s a good chance Primitivo originally came from the vineyards of coastal Croatia, where it’s still grown today under different names. This grape was introduced to the United States sometime in the 19th century, but under the name Zinfandel. It’s been extremely successful in America, having earned a reputation as the “national grape.”

 

History

 

The name Primitivo means “early one,” which refers to the grapes tendency to ripen early. This is very similar to Tempranillo, which has the same meaning in Spanish. Over the past several decades, Primitivo has had a few ups and downs. Its lowest point was in the 1990s when the EU initiated pull schemes, causing many acres of vines to be dug up. In addition, because this vine is relatively difficult to manage, it suffered more than other species. However, in America Primitivo was gaining huge popularity in the form of Zinfandel. The grape was no longer being viewed as a blending component for other styles. Instead, it was seen as the flagship of Italian wines.

 

Profile

 

Due to the early ripening nature of Primitivo, they accumulate a large amount of sugar. This results in luscious, fruity flavors. This red wine is easy to drink and contains warm notes of plum and cherry. A common complaint is that Primitivo is too low in complexity and too high in alcohol content. As a response, some winemakers in Italy opt to age it in oak barrels and take measures to ensure the grapes don’t over-ripen. This softens the flavor and brings the alcohol content down. The popular Puglian Primitivo is much richer and has a fuller body. It has notes of blueberries, blackberries, and figs. It also has a distinct fruit-leather flavor as well. Aromas found in these wines include leather, strawberry, and simple syrup.  

 

Food Pairings

 

This is a perfect wine for summer cuisine. Due to its plush flavors and higher acidity, Primitivo matches well with tomato-based dishes, especially pastas. Veal parmigiana, pizza, spaghetti Bolognese, and chicken cacciatore all pair well. It’s also very good with vegetables that have earthy flavors such as mushrooms, eggplant, onions, and capers. In addition, it will compliment heartier dishes like spicy sausage and lamb stew. When it comes to cheese pairings, go with dry, firm options such as Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino Manchego, and Grana-Padano.    

 

Meta: Recognized in America under the name Zinfandel, Primitivo is a dark-skinned grape that produces a wide range of red wine. Learn more about this Italian grape.