Primitivo

Young Primitivo wines are sometimes blended with other local grapes. Their nose is strikingly fruity. These wines offer excellent value for money and are ready to drink.

At its best, as in Primitivo di Manduria DOC, Primitivo is aged in wood. The wood may be barriques or larger barrels. These wines are usually warm and soft. They have a balanced tannic texture and spice notes that come with age. They also last well.

These dessert wines are made from grapes dried naturally. They show a broad, complex range of ripe red fruit flavours, with hints of plum. They are sweet, velvety and intense.

The origins of Primitivo are uncertain. It is believed that the vine came from Dalmatia to Puglia more than 2000 years ago. The ancient Illyrian people are said to have brought it. DNA testing and extensive historical research have confirmed a common origin with the California Zinfandel grape.

Its alcohol is naturally high, its colour intense and its body full. For a long time it was seen only as a blending wine. It was thought ideal for strengthening weak French and northern European wines.

In recent decades, though, local winemakers have worked with care. They have favoured low yields and careful vinification. The result is intense, powerful Primitivo with great elegance and finesse.

Primitivo is a great expression of the sunny land of Puglia and Southern Italy. It gives structured, round wines with extraordinary fruit intensity. They are ideal partners for meat dishes and spicy flavours.