Primitivo, a clone of Zinfandel is traditionally grown in Apulia (the "heel" of Italy), where it was introduced in the 18th Century from Croatia. Our Primitivo is produced from grapes grown in the western bench lands of the Calpella Township and in the eastern foothills overlooking the Russian River above the Ukiah Valley in Mendocino County. This wine was aged for over 36 monts in 10% new French Burgundy oak barrels.
Classic aromas and flavors of ripe berries, dried plums and earth, make this a perfect wine for wild game, roasted meats and hearty cheeses.
Background: Primitivo is a clone of Zinfandel and is traditionally grown in Apulia (the ‘heel’ of Italy), where it was introduced in the 18th century.
Vineyards: Our Primativo is produced from grapes grown in the Calpella and Ukiah Township in the eastern foothills overlooking the Russian River in Mendocino County.
Winemaking: Hand-harvested at an average 26.6 brix between September 8th to October 12th , 2018 these grapes were crushed and destemmed into small open-top stainless steel fermentors. After 4 days of a prefermentation cold- soak, the wine was fermented for 2 weeks while the cap was being pumped over and punched down twice daily. After ageing for over 36 months in 100% French oak (of which 10% was new Vosges forest burgundy barrels) the wine was egg white fined and bottled.
Winemaker Comments: The finished wine has a dark purple-garnet color with aromas and flavors of spicy dark fruits and blackberries. A complex bouquet of toasty oak, cedar and earth tones blend perfectly with the fruit forward aromas. Rich, full tannins and mouthwatering acidity produce a great food wine that is capable of ageing for a long period, which is unusual for this wonderful variety.
Food Pairing: A perfect wine for wild game, roasted leg of lamb and stews infused with herbs and spices.
Blend: 83% Primitivo 17% Zinfandel
Cases Produced: 150
Alcohol: 14.5%
Total Acidity: 0.66
pH: 3.67
Residual Sugar: 0.4% (dry)
