Primitivo Wine

Primitivo (pronounced pree-mee-TEE-vo) is southern Italy’s most characterful red grape - bold, generous and packed with ripe fruit. Grown in the sun-baked vineyards of Puglia, it produces wines of real depth and warmth, from smooth everyday reds to concentrated, cellar-worthy Riservas. It’s also the genetic twin of California’s Zinfandel, though Puglia’s expressions tend to be drier and more savoury.

Expect flavours of blackberry, black cherry, ripe plum, dried fig, vanilla and sweet spice, with the finest bottles adding chocolate, coffee and tobacco. Alcohol tends to run high - typically 13–15% ABV - giving these wines a warming, full-bodied character that pairs beautifully with slow-braised meats, hearty pasta and aged cheeses.

Our selection is drawn entirely from Puglia, with bottles from respected producers including San Marzano, Fatalone, Mottura, Miopasso and Cantine Sampietrana. The range spans entry-level Salento reds through to Primitivo di Manduria DOC and Riserva expressions - including a Magnum of Mottura’s Stilio for those looking to make an impression.

If you enjoy Primitivo, it’s also worth exploring our Italian Wine and Malbec collections for similarly bold, fruit-driven reds.

Browse our Primitivo wine selection online and order with UK delivery. Our wine advisors are happy to help you find the right bottle.