Poderi Angelini Primitivo Di Manduria 2008, DOC, Puglia, Italy

This wine is 100% Primitivo grapes (Zinfandel big brother) with maturation in barriques for 6 months and alcohol comes in at a generous 15%. 

An interesting bouquet on this Primitivo with aromas of raspberry-cherry fruit, stewed plum, exotic spices, wood smoke and light herbal notes. On the mouthfeel, medium bodied, dry, soft seductive fruit and light cedar flavours, balanced acidity and silky tannins. On the finish, medium length with a beautiful soft texture and well integrated flavours. 

I wasn’t sure what to think about this Primitivo at first, but it really grew on me. There is a real Italian feel and charming rusticity to this Primitivo and I especially loved the savoury soft maturing fruit character of this wine. The surprising thing for me was how well integrated and almost unnoticeable the 15% alcohol was. It was ready to go after a one hour decant and best served at around 17ºC or 18ºC. Great value and strongly recommended. Score 90 points. 

Purchased February 2, 2013 LCBO Vintages New Release (268136) at $17.95

Pasquale Petrera Fatalone Primitivo 2006, DOC Gioia Del Colle, Puglia, Italy

Here is an interesting mature wine, everything from its colour, intriguing aromatics and mouthfeel with no resemblance to its sibling in California (Primitivo is the same grape as Zinfandel). This wine is 100% Primitivo, estate grown grapes (organic farming with no irrigation), with ageing process of 6 months in stainless steel tanks and six months in Slovanic oak casks.

This wine opens up with aromas of sour cherry, blueberry, dried fruit, soft leather, nutty and mineral notes. On the mouthfeel, medium-full bodied (alcohol coming in at 15%), low acidity and fine dusty tannins. A medium length on the finish, very smooth with flavours of sour cherry, dried fruit and spices lingering. I would pair this wine with an antipasto platter or grilled white fish. This Primitivo taste like a Tawny Port without the 40% alcohol. An off the beaten path wine that is worth the detour, score 89 points. 

Purchased July 21, 2012 LCBO New Release (279729) at $16.95