Primitivo (pronounced pree-mee-TEE-vo) is a red Italian wine grape primarily known for producing full-bodied, fruit-forward wines. It ripens relatively early, leading to high sugar levels and resulting in wines with higher alcohol content and often, rich, jammy flavors. The grape is thought to be genetically identical to the Croatian grape, Crljenak Kaštelanski and the Californian Zinfandel. Primitivo wines are typically enjoyed young, though some higher-quality examples benefit from aging. They are most notably grown in the Apulia (Puglia) region of Southern Italy.
Primitivo meaning with examples
- On a chilly evening, the restaurant recommended a Primitivo to pair with our pasta. The waiter described it as having notes of blackberry and plum. The smooth tannins and robust character of the Primitivo beautifully complemented the rich, tomato-based sauce of the dish. The high alcohol content did warm us from the cold weather.
- During our wine-tasting trip to Italy, we sampled several Primitivo wines. The differences were striking. One, a young example, was bursting with youthful exuberance. The other, an older vintage, possessed a more complex and nuanced character with notes of leather and spice. Both wines are excellent examples of the versatility of the Primitivo grape.
- The winemaker used a Primitivo grape to craft a limited-edition wine. He used a variety of methods to craft the perfect blend. He employed an appassimento style, partially drying the grapes to concentrate their flavors. The final product was a full-bodied Primitivo with incredible depth. The final product was a truly remarkable example.
- When searching for a red wine to serve at a barbecue, Primitivo is a good choice. Its ripe fruit flavors and moderate acidity make it incredibly food-friendly, especially with grilled meats. The rich, bold profile of the wine provides a wonderful contrast to smoky flavors. This red pairs well with most red meats, and is a crowd-pleaser.