The Varvaglione “Papale” Primitivo is a bold, full-bodied red poured by the bottle at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Made by the Varvaglione family in Puglia, in the heel of southern Italy, it is a rich, sun-soaked Primitivo di Manduria that brings dark fruit and warmth to the table. We pour it because it is the kind of generous, crowd-pleasing red that loves big, savory Italian cooking.

About the Winery

Varvaglione is a family winery based in Puglia with deep roots in the region’s winemaking tradition. The family has tended vines in the Salento area for generations, specializing in the native grapes of Italy’s south. Their “Papale” line is built around Primitivo di Manduria, the grape that put this corner of Italy on the map.

Region & Grape

This wine is 100% Primitivo from the Manduria area of Puglia, the 2020 vintage. Primitivo is genetically near-identical to Zinfandel, which explains its ripe, jammy character and generous body. The hot, dry climate of southern Italy produces deeply concentrated fruit. The wine is matured in a combination of French and American oak.

Tasting Notes

Expect a dark, perfumed nose of blackberry, ripe cherry and plum, layered with cocoa, licorice and sweet spice from the oak. The palate is rich and jammy, full-bodied and round, with notes of dark chocolate and vanilla. The finish is long and warming. This is a wine of intensity rather than restraint.

What to Pair It With

Its bold fruit and soft tannins make it a natural with rich, savory plates. Try it alongside our Pappardelle Bolognese, the Sicilian Meatballs, or our American Wagyu Steaks. Browse the full dine-in menu to build the rest of the meal.

How It’s Served at Grappa

The Varvaglione “Papale” Primitivo is offered by the bottle at $95.

FAQ

Where is the Varvaglione Papale Primitivo from?

It comes from Puglia, in the heel of southern Italy, specifically the Manduria area. It is made from 100% Primitivo, the 2020 vintage.

What does it taste like?

It is rich and full-bodied, with dark berries, ripe cherry and plum, plus cocoa, licorice, vanilla and sweet spice from French and American oak. The style is jammy and generous.

Is Primitivo the same as Zinfandel?

Primitivo is genetically near-identical to Zinfandel. The two grapes share an origin, which is why both produce ripe, dark-fruited, full-bodied reds.

Ready to enjoy it in person? Book a table, explore the full wine list, and browse the dine-in menu.