Eleanor Read Big Bold Reds. Sometimes nothing else will do. When that craving hits, the only thing to satisfy it is a mouthful of full bodied, spicy, richer than rich red and this Primitivo from the Puglia region of Italy fits the bill perfectly.
Primitivo is genetically the same (or very similar, arguments persist) as the Zinfandel grape grown extensively in California. While this Italian example displays a lot of the meaty oomph of its US equivalents there is a far more sophisticated balancing act at work here.
Beautifully deep red, black almost, in colour the wine clings to the glass hinting at its full body and boozy punch. The nose is of subtle spicy oak and dark juicy cherries. As with most Italian reds the tannin level is high, making this the perfect wine to accompany grilled red meats, antipasti or pizza. Yep, this storming Italian red really does call for some proper Italian fare.
Not the cheapest wine on the piazza, but definitely one to savour rather than glug. Next time you order in your Four Seasons or Margherita, take it up a notch or two and treat it to this fine companion.
Ogio Primitivo 2008, £8.99 from Tesco and other suppliers.
