“America’s grape.” That’s what we call Zinfandel, because the history of its cultivation goes back to the Gold Rush days. Unlike any other wine we enjoy, Zinfandel is uniquely ours. I call it the “Fourth of July Wine” because it’s a bit sweet, very fruity, highly alcoholic, and goes great with barbecued ribs, chicken, burgers, all that grilled stuff.

But people who study the genetics of wine grapes (and I’m sure there must be at least two) tell us that Zin actually comes from Croatia by way of Italy, where it’s known as Primitivo. To be a bit more specific, it’s now grown in the Salento region of Puglia, in the heel of the boot.

They also grow the blending buddies Malvasia and Negro Amaro, but that’s a story for another blog.

The southern climate of the Salento area packs the grapes with jammy fruit flavors. Try the Vecchia Torre Primitivo Salento, and you’ll get blackberry, anise, and pepper, along with cherry, raspberry and spice.