Puglia (Apulia)

Puglia is located in the heel of Italy's "boot". The capital is Bari.

Puglia is a major wine-producing region with a long history of viticulture.

Climate

Puglia has a predominantly Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The region's flat plains, rolling hills, and proximity to the Adriatic and Ionian Seas contribute to a variety of microclimates.

The warmth and abundance of sunlight make Puglia well-suited for grape cultivation.

Grapes

Puglia is home to a range of grape varieties, both indigenous and international. Notable red grape varieties include Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Nero di Troia, while white varieties include Fiano, Greco, and Malvasia.

The region is known for its bold and fruity red wines, often characterized by high alcohol content and a rich, full-bodied profile.

Primitivo

Primitivo is a key red grape variety in Puglia and is genetically identical to California's Zinfandel. Primitivo wines are known for their ripe fruit flavors, high alcohol content, and often a hint of spiciness. The Primitivo di Manduria DOC is particularly famous for producing high-quality wines from this grape.

Negroamaro

Another important red grape, Negroamaro, is widely grown in Puglia. Wines made from Negroamaro exhibit dark fruit flavors, hints of spice, and a smooth, velvety texture. Salice Salentino is a well-known DOC for Negroamaro wines.

Nero di Troia

Nero di Troia is a red grape that produces wines with a good balance of acidity and tannins. Castel del Monte is a DOC in Puglia known for Nero di Troia wines, which are often characterized by complexity and aging potential.

Food Pairing

Puglia's wines complement the regional cuisine, which includes hearty pasta dishes, grilled meats, seafood, and a variety of olive oil-based dishes.

The bold reds are particularly well-suited to pair with the robust flavors of Puglian cuisine.