Introduction:
Presentation of the Primitivo grape: origins, characteristics and importance in the world of wine.
Historical context of the production of Primitivo: its journey from Croatia to Italy and the world.
Overview of current production: main producing regions, wine styles, challenges and potential.
History and Origins of Primitivo:
The ancestry of Primitivo: its relationship with the Zinfandel grape.
The journey from Croatia to Puglia: how Primitivo arrived in Italy.
The development of Primitivo in Puglia: from table grape to noble variety.
The rediscovery of Primitivo and its rise in the international market.
Characteristics of the Primitivo Grape:
Ampelographic aspects: description of the vine, bunches and berries.
Vegetative cycle and grape maturation.
Grape composition: sugars, acids, polyphenols.
Primitivo’s winemaking potential: types of wine it produces.
Terroir and the Influence on Primitivo Cultivation:
Primitivo producing regions in Italy: focus on Puglia (Manduria, Gioia del Colle).
Other regions of the world where Primitivo is grown: California, Australia, etc.
Influence of climate and soil on the characteristics of grapes and wine.
Vineyard management practices: pruning, training, disease control.
Primitivo Winemaking:
Winemaking techniques for different styles of wine: young reds, matured in oak, rosés.
Maceration, fermentation, temperature control.
Use of yeast and other inputs.
The role of the winemaker in the production of Primitivo wines.
Elaboration of sweet and fortified wines with Primitivo (e.g. Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale).
Primitivo Wines:
Sensory profiles of Primitivo wines: aromas, flavors, structure, body.
Detailed descriptions of the different styles of wine: young, full-bodied, matured in wood.
Harmonization with gastronomy.
Tips for tasting and appreciation.
Important labels and producers.
Awards and recognition.
Primitivo and the Market:
Primitivo in the international market: trends and challenges.
The role of the Controlled Denomination of Origin (DOC) in the valorization of Primitivo.
Marketing and promotion of Primitivo wines.
The Future of Primitivo:
Production challenges: climate change, competition.
Sustainability and environmental preservation.
Research and innovation in viticulture.
Primitivo’s potential for producing high quality wines.