VARVAGLIONE PRIMITIVO 12 MEZZO

Varvaglione Primitivo 12 e Mezzo is an Italian red wine made by the winery Varvaglione 1921, based in Puglia (southern Italy).

It’s one of their most popular “modern Primitivo” wines, named for its ~12.5% alcohol level, which is lighter than many typical Primitivo wines.

What it is

1. Type: Red wine (Primitivo / Zinfandel grape)
2. Region: Puglia, Italy
3. Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward, soft tannins
4. Alcohol: ~12.5% ABV (the “12 e Mezzo” refers to this)

Primitivo is the Italian name for the same grape known in the U.S. as Zinfandel.

Flavor profile

This wine is known for being smooth and very approachable:

1. Fruit: ripe plum, blackberry, cherry, raspberry jam
2. Sweet spice: cinnamon, vanilla, clove
3. Light chocolate or cocoa notes
4. Subtle dried fruit (fig, raisin)
5. Soft, round tannins with a smooth finish

Overall impression: ripe, juicy, and slightly jammy but balanced

Style in simple terms

Think of it as:

1. A softer, lower-alcohol Primitivo/Zinfandel
2. Less heavy than big, high-alcohol versions from Puglia or California
3. Very easy-drinking and fruit-driven

Food pairing

Works well with:

1. Pasta with tomato or meat sauces
2. Pizza
3. Grilled meats or BBQ
4. Roasted vegetables
5. Aged cheeses like pecorino or parmesan

Simple takeaway

Varvaglione Primitivo 12 e Mezzo = a smooth, fruit-forward Italian red with ripe berry flavors, soft tannins, and a lighter alcohol style compared to typical Primitivo wines.