92pts, Wine Enthusiast
The 2022 Primitivo presents a distinctive and savory aromatic profile, opening with notes of iron and crushed granite, layered with mineral tones, wild herbs, and a subtle hint of umami richness. On the palate, the wine reveals an intriguing interplay of flavors, beginning with a touch of sweet fruit that transitions into a pleasantly bitter edge. Its mineral-driven character takes center stage, offering depth and structure, with a notably non-floral profile that underscores its bold, earthy expression.
This Primitivo pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as lamb chops or a smoky BBQ brisket. It also complements rich, hearty pasta dishes like braised short ribs or savory mushroom risotto.
Planted in 2003 alongside our Estate Zinfandel, our head-trained Primitivo vines have traditionally served as a standout blending component in our wines. While Primitivo and Zinfandel are genetically nearly identical—often considered different clones of the same vine—the distinct clonal differences between our vineyard blocks have become more apparent as the vines mature. We meticulously harvest, ferment, and barrel-age the grapes separately to showcase these nuances. Nestled at an elevation of around 2,400 feet, our vineyard benefits from warm days and cool nights, allowing our Primitivo to reach optimal ripeness while maintaining vital acidity. After hand-harvesting, the grapes are crushed, destemmed, and allowed to cold soak for at least 24 hours before fermentation begins. Once dry, the wine is pressed and aged in oak barrels to further develop its complexity.
