As noted before, many of the wines in Italy, especially the primitivo, are straightforward, rustic, everyday wines.  This means a number of things to any number of people, but it also means that these wines are not polished to the extent of many more modern offerings.  These wines have character of the soil, the place, and are meant to be enjoyed, preferably with food, not cellared.  Torre Dei Gesuiti Zinfandel should fit this mould, but how does it do?

Sight:  A light to moderate red, with transparency a pinkish character to the body, and light watery edges.

Smell:  Earthy, with hints of espresso and dusty soil.  Cherries, blackberries, and currants come forward, and complimented with hints of spice.

Sip:  The body is light-moderate and bright, but a little rough texturally.   Juicy cherries and an earthiness come to the forefront, with back notes of barnyard and coffee.  Hints of plums are in play as well.

Savor:  The ending pulls in some mocha and light-moderate tannins.  The cherries pucker up, and lean sour.

There’s nothing special to write home about for Torre Dei Gesuiti Zinfandel, but it is a solid old world style zinfandel.  The earthy flavors are the forefront here, but give the fruit some room to play.  That said, lovers of fruitier reds will find something to be desired, but those that like a little farmy flavor should give Torre Dei Gesuiti Zinfandel a try.

Verdict:  Earth, Cherry, Coffee, Bright
Rating: 70
Price: $10
Puglia, Italy