Primitivo is also known as Tribidrag and Crljenak Kasteljanski in Croatia, but more common to us- Zinfandel. This Italian bottle has a deep ruby coloring and thick legs. The nose is pronounced with aromas of black cherry, licorice, charcoal, black pepper, black plum and dark currants. The palate is dry with bracing tannins and a good dose of acidity. There is an astringent and green sensation that is immediate on the attack, downplaying the fruit. When I finally get to the flavors- dark fruit with charred oak notes and licorice. Medium to full bodied it has a medium length finish. It’s a young wine that needs cellaring or decanting/aerating. I am pairing it with spaghetti and meat sauce, probably the best choice for this very dry and tannic red. 88 points from me and for $16 it gets 3 stars. Drink from 2024-2028. Salut….
