Do you enjoy intense, warm red wines with great character ? Then the Primitivo is sure to win you over ! An iconic grape variety from Puglia, it captivates with its warm aromas and generous roundness. Today, Primitivo has even established itself as one of the most popular Italian wines in the world.
So, ready to learn more about this wonderful grape variety ? Make yourself comfortable, we’re heading to Italy! History, terroir, aromas, and food and wine pairings are on the agenda.
Summary
History of the Primitivo grape variety
Long considered a typically Italian grape variety, Primitivo actually has probable origins in Croatia, where it is known as Crljenak Kaštelanski or Tribidrag, one of the oldest grape varieties of the Dalmatian coast.
It was only from the 18th century that it crossed the Adriatic to settle in Apulia, in the south of Italy, where local monks and farmers then noticed its qualities as well as its early ripening. This precocity allows it to develop a high concentration of sugars and aromas, giving rise to powerful red wines and generous ones.
Adapted to the hot and dry climate of Apulia, Primitivo therefore developed rapidly there and even became one of the most important grape varieties in the region, especially in Manduria, an area within Apulia that would distinguish itself from the 20th century onwards by the creation of the Primitivo di Manduria DOC.
Genetic research conducted in the 1990s and 2000s also led to a major discovery: Primitivo is genetically identical to Zinfandel, the iconic grape variety of California. This breakthrough made it possible to trace the grape’s journey and understand that Zinfandel did not originate in the United States, but was imported in the 19th century. Thus, Primitivo belongs to a true Mediterranean lineage, having traveled from Croatia to Italy before crossing the Atlantic to become one of the most famous grape varieties in the United States and California.
Nevertheless, despite its many journeys, Primitivo remains very closely linked to Italy and the Puglia region.The grape variety is indeed a true symbol of southern Italian wines, and its historical heritage contributes to the international reputation of the region’s red wines. Today, the United States and Italy account for more than 90% of the variety’s plantings.
The appellations of the Primitivo grape variety
As mentioned, Primitivo thrives above all in Puglia, a region where the grapes fully benefit from the Mediterranean sun. This area of Italy indeed enjoys a warm and dry climate, with abundant sunshine and often cool nights, allowing the grapes to reach optimal ripeness while retaining freshness.
These conditions, combined with a long local winemaking tradition, make Apulia an ideal region to express the full potential of the grape variety.
Primitivo di Manduria DOC
Among the most emblematic Primitivo vineyards is the famous Primitivo di Manduria DOC, created in 1974. Located in the south of Apulia, between the provinces of Taranto and Brindisi, it is within this warm and particularly sunny wine-growing area that the Primitivo grape variety perhaps best expresses its power and concentration. The terroir here is mainly composed of ferruginous red soils, rich in iron and clay.
An excellent sweet red wine is also produced within the vineyard: Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale, obtained from overripe grapes.
Gioia del Colle DOC
Primitivo is also the key grape variety of Gioia del Colle DOC. This small appellation is located in the province of Bari, at a higher altitude than Manduria, and offers a style of Primitivo that is often fresher and more elegant.
The cool nights and the presence of limestone plateaus indeed bring a beautiful tension and a more delicate profile to the wines. Many consider Gioia del Colle to be the most balanced and digestible version of Primitivo.
Salento IGT
Another important appellation for Primitivo, the Salento IGT covers the entire Salento peninsula, the southern part of Apulia. This PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), by definition more flexible than a DOC, allows the production of a wide variety of wine styles, from powerful reds to fresh and fruity rosato (rosé) and even white wine indulgent.
Primitivo wines under this PGI often offer excellent value for money and a lot of indulgentise. Other grape varieties such as Negroamaro (the most emblematic of the IGT), Susumaniello, and Malvasia Nera are also grown.
Puglia IGT
Even broader, the Puglia IGT (IGP Puglia) covers the entire region. This offers maximum flexibility for producers, allowing many estates to produce Primitivo wines in a modern, accessible style often focused on fruit.
Wines from this appellation are often meant to be enjoyed younger and are offered at more affordable prices than those from the previous appellations, while still retaining the warm and sunny character of the grape variety. Other varieties such as Negroamaro or Nero di Troia are also widely planted.
Other vineyards
Outside of Apulia, Primitivo is also found in a few more confidential areas in the south of Italy, particularly in Basilicata as well as in certain areas of Campania (region of Naples). However, these productions remain marginal compared to the dominant role it holds in Apulia, the birthplace and reference region of the grape variety.
In the United States, Zinfandel is also widely cultivated, especially in California where several AVA (American Viticultural Areas) such as Lodi or Napa Valley dedicate a significant part of their production to it.The style ranges from fruity red wine and indulgent to powerful and alcoholic wine, up to the famous "White Zinfandel", a sweet rosé that has largely popularized the grape variety locally.
Finally, Primitivo is also present in small volumes in Croatia, Australia, South Africa, and even Mexico.
Wine map of Puglia, Italy
The characteristics of Primitivo
As you will have understood, Primitivo produces fleshy red wines, indulgents, powerful and expressive. Its alcohol content is high, often ranging between 14% and 16%, and gives the wine a pleasant warmth on the palate as well as a solid structure that perfectly supports hearty meals rich in flavor.
On the nose, Primitivo is regularly distinguished by very ripe black fruit aromas such as plum, candied cherry, or blackberry. Notes of dried fig may also be present, as well as sweet spices like licorice or sometimes cocoa. Finally, when aged in oak barrels, Primitivo can also display subtle hints of vanilla and wood that blend harmoniously with the fruity flavors.
On the palate, Primitivo offers a velvety texture with supple yet present tannins. Its concentration and roundness make it a generous wine, capable of appealing both to lovers of lighter reds indulgents and those who appreciate more structured cuvées.
Young Primitivo wines are often easy to enjoy thanks to their charming fruitiness, while the great cuvées from the DOC Primitivo di Manduria or the IGPs of Apulia (Puglia IGT, Salento IGT) can have impressive aging potential.
Primitivo is a grape variety that produces concentrated, fleshy, and powerful red wines
Which dishes pair well with Primitivo?
Distinguished by its power and generosity, Primitivo produces wines that are particularly versatile at the table. The structure and intense aromas of the variety allow it to pair with many flavorful dishes.
Grilled or roasted red meats are, for example, classic pairings that work particularly well with a structured Primitivo. A well-seared rib of beef, a herb-crusted leg of lamb, or slowly caramelized pork ribs pair perfectly with the richness and power of this grape variety. Game meats, such as wild boar or braised duck, also find a beautiful balance thanks to the concentration and warmth on the palate of Primitivo.
Primitivo also pairs wonderfully with stewed and saucy dishes, which are essential in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Gratinated lasagna Bolognese, fragrant osso buco, tagines with mild spices, or roasted and stuffed vegetables are truly enhanced by this wine.Tomato-based sauces, Mediterranean herbs, and delicate spices blend perfectly with the roundness and depth of the grape variety, whether it is a structured red or a lighter rosato.
On the Mediterranean cuisine side, the grape variety pairs successfully with mushroom-based dishes, such as a creamy porcini risotto or forest-style sautés, as well as dishes made with roasted peppers, grilled eggplants, or zucchinis. The slightly sweet and roasted flavors of these vegetables combine perfectly with the fruity concentration of the grape variety.
Finally, Primitivo also reveals all its charm with spicy or sweet-and-savory dishes, such as a lamb tagine with prunes, dishes made with figs and raisins, or certain sweet and spicy specialties from Asian cuisine.The richness and warmth of the wine then balance the sweet spices and caramelized notes, creating an intense and indulgente experience.
To fully enjoy all the aromas and texture of your Primitivo-based wines, we recommend serving them slightly chilled, between 16 and 18°C. Decanting is also recommended for the youngest vintages.
Caramelized pork ribs, a perfect pairing with the power of Primitivo
The best wines made from the Primitivo grape variety
To explore all the richness and power of Primitivo, certain estates particularly stand out in our opinion.Among them, we recommend Feudi di San Marzano and Tenuta Giustini, which offer ideal selections to discover the most authentic expression of this sun-drenched grape variety.
Feudi di San Marzano
Located in the heart of Manduria, Feudi di San Marzano embodies the soul of Primitivo. This historic cooperative, bringing together around a hundred passionate winemakers, has established itself as one of the leading players in the Primitivo di Manduria DOC appellation.
Their cuvées offer intense, deep, and captivating wines, where power meets finesse.Thanks to collective expertise and a modern vision, Feudi di San Marzano produces expressive Primitivos rooted in their terroir, appealing to both curious enthusiasts and discerning connoisseurs.
Tenuta Giustini
Located in the heart of Salento, Tenuta Giustini is a family estate offering a modern and refined interpretation of Primitivo. The estate highlights the purity of the fruit, the smoothness of texture, and a constant sense of balance, while maintaining expressive, full-bodied, and deeply Mediterranean wines.
The range stands out for its versatility: accessible and immediate cuvées sit alongside more ambitious wines, capable of gaining depth over time.Tenuta Giustini thus illustrates the remarkable ability of Primitivo to lend itself to different styles while preserving its generous, sunny, and intensely indulgent.
As you will have understood, Primitivo is an essential grape variety that alone embodies the warmth and conviviality of southern Italy. Grown mainly in Puglia, it produces powerful, generous, and incredibly indulgent wines. Thanks to its multiple appellations and styles (rosato, age-worthy reds, young and fruity cuvées), it appeals to both enthusiasts and discerning connoisseurs.
And you, have you ever tasted a great Primitivo? If this grape variety intrigues you or if you want to discover new bottles for your next meals, feel free to check out the selection of your online wine merchant.Let yourself be tempted and do not hesitate to contact us. Enjoy your tasting!
