Primitivo grapevines for sale

Primitivo Grapevine | Grow, Care & Planting Guide

Primitivo is a dark-skinned red grape variety known for producing bold, fruit-driven wines with soft to moderate tannins and elevated alcohol. It is highly valued for its ripe, jammy fruit flavors, approachability, and versatility, often used for both varietal wines and blends. Controlled yields can produce wines with greater depth and structure. Genetically identical to Zinfandel.

  • Originated in southern Italy
  • Ripening Period: Early season
  • High vigor
  • Moderate yield
Availability

Preferred Climate

Primitivo performs best in a warm Mediterranean climate with long, sunny growing seasons. It thrives in well-drained soils and benefits from moderate diurnal temperature variation to retain acidity while achieving full ripeness.

Growth Characteristics

Primitivo produces medium to large clusters with medium-sized, thin-skinned berries that can ripen quickly in warm climates. The vine exhibits high vigor and naturally high productivity, requiring careful pruning and canopy management to maintain concentration and prevent excessive vegetative growth. It performs best in well-drained soils and warm sites, but overripe fruit can lead to flabby wines if not harvested at the right time.

How to Plant & Care for Primitivo Grapevines

  • Pre-irrigate soil 24 hours before planting
  • Acclimate the grapevine to site temperature before planting
  • Remove any plastic pot before planting a green potted grapevine
  • Plant the vine so the graft union is ~6 inches above the soil line
  • Install a plant protector over the vine
  • Irrigate based on soil type and site conditions
  • View our planting guides for in-depth instructions
Green Potted Vine Planting GuideDormant Bareroot Vine Planting Guide

Wine Profile

Primitivo wines are typically full-bodied with moderate acidity, soft to moderate tannins, and high alcohol. Aromatically, they display dark fruit such as blackberry, plum, and cherry, often complemented by spice, vanilla, and subtle earthy notes. On the palate, the wines are rich, round, and plush, with a concentrated fruit core and a smooth, velvety finish. Primitivo is approachable in youth but can develop additional complexity with careful aging, showing dried fruit, leather, and spice nuances.

Clones

  • FPS 3 - Moderate to high vigor and yield. Medium cluster size.
  • FPS 5 - Moderate to high vigor and yield. Medium cluster size. Similar qualities to FPS 3 with slightly high production in most cases.
  • FPS 6 - (Researching)