When you think about wines from Puglia, Italy, what most likely comes to mind is the Primitivo di Manduria, Negroamaro, and Salice Salentino, but there are also more obscure varietals from the region like the Bianco d’Alessano, produced in the Martina Franca area in the center of Puglia. Let’s take an insider’s look at the best Wines of Puglia.

Red and White Wines of Puglia

Puglia is responsible for 17% of all wine production in Italy, and is in fact, one of the largest producers in the world. The ideal climate of the region, sandwiched between two seas (the Adriatic and the Mediterranean), benefits from a cool breeze at night, while the different altitudes of the rolling hills, coupled with the hot summer make this an idyllic place to grow grapes and make wine.

The red wines are potent thanks to the hot summer sun and the whites like the Alessano have a deep, golden color, featuring rich Mediterranean notes of apricot and orange peel. The whites only make up 20% of the overall production, of which the most popular are the Bombino Bianco, Bianco d’Alessano and the Vereca.

However, without a doubt, the two most popular and widely available wines from Puglia are the Salice Salentino and the Primitivo. The Salice Salentino wine gets its name from the Salento Peninsula located in the far South Eastern point of the Heel of the Boot. Wines in Puglia are made following traditional techniques combined with the most innovative ones. The mildness of the climate, as well as the sea’s influence and the robust soil give way to wines that will surprise even the most seasoned palates. They have over 25 protected dominations of origins coming from this region.

Primitivo di Manduria

The Primitivo di Manduria is one of the most popular wines from Puglia, coming from the area northwest of Salento called Taranto, which lies along the Ionian Sea. The particularity of this grape is that it matures early, in late August. It tends to be quite alcoholic despite its early maturation and pairs nicely with cold cuts, sharp cheeses such as a caciocavallo and meat-based dishes, such as orecchiette with meat sauce.

Salice Salentino

Another of the most popular wines is Salento’s Salice Salentino wine. This intensely fragrant wine reminiscent of the region’s tasty ripe red fruits provides a great pairing to meats and cheeses thanks to its well-structured, full-bodied flavor. It has an intense dark red color and tastes warm and velvety on the palate.

Negroamaro

The Negroamaro grape is one of the most renowned varietals in Puglia, and is almost exclusively cultivated there. Together with the Primitivo and the Nero di Troia, it is one of the most well-known, and can be traced back to the 6th century B.C. In fact, it was first used to be blended with other varietals, but now you can find this fruity, garnet-red wine as a monovarietal at most wineries in Puglia. It is known to have a full and round flavor with hints of red berries.

The best Wineries in Puglia’s Salento

Some of Puglia’s best wines come from the deep south of Puglia, in Salento. So let’s take a look at two wineries that are worth a visit and find out where you can indulge in different wines from the area.

Schola Sarmenti

Schola Sarmenti winery can be found in Nardò. They have competitive prices, especially if you do it like the locals and fill your own bottle directly from the barrel. They make a selection of 6 reds, 2 whites and 2 roses. The family-run farm harvests each bunch of grapes one by one and then select the best grapes to create high-quality wines that represents the land’s unique terroir.

Cantine Sociale Nardò

The Cantina Sociale di Nardò - Cooperative Society - dates back to 1937 and today counts about 100 members who pool together their grapes of different varietals, such as Negroamaro, Malvasia, Primitivo and Fiano vines, typical of Salento. They produce under two protected origins: the DOC Nardò Rosso and Rosato IGP Salento. Their wines are decisive and have an enveloping taste that will delight the senses.

Where to enjoy Puglia’s wine

Il Banco

Il Banco is located in Lecce, one of the most beautiful cities in Puglia. If you’re planning on making the trip to Lecce, you can consult our guide to the top 5 things to do in Lecce. This miniature bar in Lecce has a great selection of wines from Puglia and is tastefully decorated. You can also try some small plates to pair with your Puglian wine choice.

At the Aia

If you’re looking where to enjoy different wines from Puglia all in one place, then visit At the Aia for a Poolside Dining Experience. You can enjoy a varied wine list with some of Salento’s favorite wines in an unparalleled setting away from the hustle and bustle and watch the sun set while sipping on tasty Salentine wines.

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