Primitivo is a red grape that was originally planted in southern Italy, notably in Puglia. The robust and rustic spicy black and fruity notes of Primitivo thrive in the warmest climates, and will achieve extremely high alcohol levels. Most people believe that Pimitivo and Zinfandel is the same grape and actually, they are genetically similar although it took some detective work and DNA fingerprinting to figure that out. Zinfandel and Primitivo are closes of the Croatian grape that is called Crljenak. Cloning is not a bad thing when it comes to grapes and is merely a genetic subtype that occurs naturally or is gently encouraged by the grower. Grapes are more adaptable than people think and can mutate extremely easily. If a grape grow catches a glimpse of a vine that is preferable for berry size, ripening characteristics and cluster formation, it is easy to graft and cut a clone onto an established vine, which is how the Primitivo red grape was created. Although Zinfandel and Primitivo have been considered by most as synonyms, the United States labeling laws does not allow them to be used interchangeably. That is why you will find Zinfandel and Pimitivo blends in the US.
Cortenova Primitivo is made from 100% Primitivo
The grapes are harvested and immediately pressed at controlled temperature. Fermentation is carried out with maceration on the skins for 10-12 days; daily remontages; malolactic fermentation.
Dark, ruby-red color with violet highlights. Intense and fragrant bouquet with a rich array of red and black fruit aromas and flavors. Harmonious and velvety on the palate. Great balance and structure.
Excellent with grilled or roasted meats, game and cheeses.
B Leighton Petit Verdot is made from 100 percent Petit Verdot.
Beautiful, lively and focused at first approach. Expressing black cassis, blackberry, brambles and thyme combining with crushed gravel, pencil shavings and floral notes. It is a fantastic expression of Petit Verdot that is rich and velvet on the palate, all at the same time. So much depth and length it seriously takes your breath away.
Review:
Lastly, the 2016 Petit Verdot comes from a higher elevation block and was brought up in 40% new French oak. It has a great bouquet of white pepper, chocolatey dark fruits, tobacco, and a kiss of violets to go with a full-bodied, incredible elegant profile on the palate. You don’t find Petit Verdot with this level of finesse very often, and it has silky tannins, good mid-palate concentration, and a great finish. It’s another stunning wine from Leighton I’d be thrilled to drink over the coming 10-15 years.
-Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points