The story of this Italian varietal, Primitivo, actually starts in Croatia where in the 15th century the grape was known as tribidrag. In America, the grape is known as Zinfandel. Our understanding is that the grapevine was brought to Italy across the Adriatic Sea by Slavic escapes who abandoned their land because of the Ottoman occupation. In the 18th century, an Italian priest, Don Filippo, noticed that the vines matured earlier than others and as a result called the variety primativo from the Latin primativus (“first to ripen”), and started planting the vine in Puglia (also known as Apulia).  In America, the grape was first imported in 1829 from the Austrian imperial nursery in Vienna (now enter the “The Sound of Music”) by George Gibbs of Long Island, who took it to Boston where the grape first was known at Zenfendal among New Englanders. Those who participated in the California Gold Rush brought the grape to California where it is now most prolific.

The Italian region of Puglia is across the Adriatic Sea from Greece, and sits on the heel of the Italian boot.  This region produces more Italian wine than any other, as well as more olive oil than any other region.  A Mediterranean climate with topsoils rich in iron oxide, the region is well suited to agriculture.  

This specific wine from producer Polvanera has a ruby color with aromas of cherry jam and a velvety texture. Find yours for $18.99 at Carriage Hills Bottle Shoppe. Wine details: 2018 Polvanera Calx Primitivo Puglia produced and bottled by Cantine Polvanera Gioia del Colle (BA) Italia. Certified Organic. Fermentation in steel tanks; unfiltered and unfined. 12.5% ABV.  

This holiday season, MaconWine.com will feature six wines you can find in the local area that pair well with celebrations, food, and family.