Inkwell Infidels Primitivo 2022

Inkwell make zinfandel and primitivo. Same, same, essentially. But the different blocks perform differently, so the nomenclature reflects that. This is genuinely reminiscent of Puglian primitivo, resplendent with dried fruits, currants, fig and date, blackberry, and hit heavily with spices, in an amaro and panforte register, anise to the fore, and underwritten by a dry, tarry earthiness. It’s opulent, in its way, but intensely savoury, too. Much more Puglia than California. And, of course, intrinsically McLaren Vale. Compelling. 93 points – Marcus Ellis, Halliday Wine Companion