Primitivo Wines

Primitivo is primarily grown in Puglia in southern Italy especially in regions such as Manduria Gioia del Colle and Salento. These warm Mediterranean areas help create the grape’s ripe fruit style and high alcohol levels.

Primitivo and Zinfandel share the same Croatian origin but Primitivo is mostly produced in Puglia in Italy while Zinfandel is widely grown in California. Italian Primitivo tends to be earthier and richer while Californian Zinfandel is often sweeter and more fruit forward.

Primitivo pairs well with dishes from southern Italy including tomato based pasta Puglian meat stews grilled lamb and Mediterranean barbecue. Its bold flavours also match well with American style smoked meats and spicy cuisine.

Primitivo is usually dry but the warm climate of Puglia produces very ripe grapes which give the wine a naturally sweet tasting fruit profile. Some producers in Manduria also make slightly sweeter styles known for their rich jammy character.

The most highly regarded Primitivo wines come from Primitivo di Manduria DOC and Gioia del Colle DOC in Puglia. These areas are known for old vines limestone soils and intense sun exposure which create powerful concentrated wines.