Primitivo

Essentially the same as Zinfandel (both are biotypes of the Croatian Crljenak Kaštelanski aka Tribidrag). One of earliest ripening varieties in Italy. High in alcohol. Aromas & flavors: Red cherry, strawberry jam, plum; sometimes tobacco, tar, herbs. Best DOPs: Gioia del Colle DOC, Primitivo di Manduria DOC.

In a nutshell

Color: Red

Alternative Names and Subvarieties: Zinfandel

Origin: Autochthonous, International

Best Known For: High-alcohol red wines from Puglia (and California)

Where Grown: Almost exclusively in Puglia (98%)

Regions:

Puglia,

Vineyard Area: 14,036 ha (34,669 acres)

Denominations that use this grape variety

Majority Component in One or More Wines of:

Principal Red Grape Varieties:

Colline Joniche Tarantine DOC, Falerno del Massico DOC, Gioia del Colle DOC, Gravina DOC, IGP Terre Abruzzesi / Terre d’Abruzzo, Matera DOC, Primitivo di Manduria DOC, Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale DOCG, Terra d’Otranto DOC