Many names, one grape variety!
Zinfandel, Primitivo, Tribidrag, and Kratosija is one grape variety with four different names. Zinfandel is the American, Californian name. Primitivo is the Italian name. Tribidrag is coming from Croatia and Kratosija is found in Montenegro, Serbia and North Macedonia.
Zinfandel, also known as "Zin," is a staple of California winemaking and is known for its bold, fruity flavor profile. It's often recommended as pairng partner to big, juicy steak because of its rich, full-bodied taste. Primitivo, on the other hand, is the grape variety's original name and is most commonly found in the Puglia region of Italy. It's known for its high alcohol content and intense flavors of dark fruit, like black cherry and blackberry with medium acidity and big, but ripe tannins.
Tribidrag, also known as Crljenak Kaštelanski, is a grape variety that is grown primarily in Croatia and is considered the ancestor of both Zinfandel and Primitivo. It is known for its high alcohol content and intense flavors of dark fruit, similar to its descendant varieties.
Lastly, Kratosija is a grape variety grown in Montenegro, Serbia and to small account in North Macedonia and is also considered to be a descendant of Tribidrag. It is known for its complexity and concentration of flavors, with notes of dark fruit, spices, and a touch of tobacco.
All in all, these four grape varieties may have different names and origins, but they all share a common heritage and a bold, fruit-forward flavor profile. Next time you're tasting a Zinfandel, Primitivo, Tribidrag, or Kratosija, remember that you're experiencing the many faces of one grape variety.