2013 Massena Barossa Valley Primitivo

The story goes that after not getting much joy out of the U C Davis clone of Zinfandel, the Massena winemakers replaced these with Primitivo sourced from Puglia in Italy. The dry-farmed, low yielding vines have gone on to thrive on the winery's Dadds Block vineyard.

The 2013 vintage displays an inky crimson black colour in the glass. Broodingly dark. Black cherry, black plum, liquorice and black pepper on the nose enhanced by a whiff of smokiness from its maturation in seasoned French oak barrels.

There's a slight tannic grip on entry with earthy, spicy liquorice notes more abundant initially on the palate than fruit flavours. Chocolate-covered cherry and pastille fruit flavours take a back seat to the spicy richness. Full-bodied with bright acidity and grippy, earthy tannins.

The 2013 Primitivo carries more spice and weight, perhaps lacking in the fruit profile that was evident in the riper, juicier 2012 vintage. That and the warmth on exit wasn't to my liking here.

Source: Retail. ABV: 14.5%. Closure: Screw Cap. Price: $22.00. Rating: 88 Points.

Website: http://www.massena.com.au