2021 Belli Mondi Italy Primitivo

Primitivo is an Italian red grape that produces bold wines with smooth flavors. Originally from Croatia, it found a welcoming home on the limestone plateaus of Puglia. In the New World, Primitivo thrives in California, where it’s known as... that’s right... Zinfandel.

Several designated Italian wine zones on the Salento peninsula, between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, are specifically dedicated to Primitivo. There, it’s used to craft not only single-varietal wines, but also to add body to red blends. It’s also found in elegant rosato (rosé) wines, as well as luscious fortified wines like Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale.

But this is a classic rendition of the variety, made to accompany the wonderful red sauces that define so much of Italian cooking. And like a California Zinfandel, it also pairs perfectly with barbecued meats.