» Primitivo
Early to ripen, very early: hence the name Primitivo. And that is not the only distinguishing quality of this grape variety.
It is extremely old, having arrived in Salento over two thousand years ago from Dalmatia, brought here by the Illyrians. From there, as we know, the people that came mixed with the indigenous population to give rise to the ancient Messapian civilization.
As soon as September arrives, the fruit is already ripe on the plant. The pulp is juicy and sweet to taste. The colour of the grape is an intense, winey red. Like its wine. The shape of the grape is round. The wine obtained from it develops highly distinctive aromas of considerable complexity.
Confirming the theory of its Balkan origins, this grape variety bears a striking resemblance to the Croatian variety known as ‘Plavac mali’. Recent DNA analysis also supports the hypothesis that Salento’s Primitivo is closely related to Zinfandel, a variety originating, as we know, from Hungary.
The character of Primitivo is the same as that of the preferred terrain it has chosen to inhabit. It likes deep clay and coarse limestone. Its wine is sweetish and full-bodied. It is also very alcoholic. It is spicy, delicate and strong, with good structure.
Once a blending wine, thanks to the work of our oenologists and our producers Primitivo is now a high-quality wine.
