Primitivo Wine
Primitivo may sometimes be labelled as Zinfandel (a Californian grape variety). Both grapes are clones of a rare Croatian varietal and are genetically very similar. However, the differences in growing conditions make for distinctly different wines. Primitivo grapes ripen under the hot Mediterranean sunshine in the heel of Italy’s boot, thus creating a rich red wine that is a lot heartier than its fruity, Californian counterpart.Flavour
Primitivo wines are well structured, full bodied reds. They are warm and velvety on the palate. Notable Primitivo fruit flavours include black cherry, blackberry, prune and strawberry. Notes of chocolate, exotic spice, white pepper, vanilla and coffee offset the rich fruit flavours while firm yet smooth tannins create a long, lingering finish.Best Pairings
Primitivos rich and layered flavours pair well with a variety of dishes. Aromatic, exotic dishes that are full of flavour work excellently to bring out the wines subtle spicy notes. Think Turkish meatballs, Moroccan lamb tagine or Caribbean jerk chicken.