winery in Walla Walla appreciates that crisp zing when using Italian winegrapes . “ There ’ s always that acidity ! If these grapes get a little extra hang time they produce wines that are not a big leap from Washington ’ s traditional wines . More and more people are trying them .”
Dusted Valley ’ s Primitivo shows off the spicy , peppery flavors for which the variety is known , but differs from Zinfandel in that the tannic structure of the wine is softer and more supple when young . Due to supply , the availability of this dark wine also ebbs and flows !
Popularity of these wines will continue to grow . Wineries that wish to set themselves apart may have to start looking for warm places to grow them , even though the crisp nature of the wines works like 3D glasses for food on the plate — flavors get more lively and vivid .
We hope you pull a cork of this liquid art and explore the impact Italian culture has on our winegrowing . For a wider array of Washington wineries working with these varieties , also refer to the Washington Wine Commission ’ s website at washingtonwine . org .
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